Tottenham Hotspur Starting XI Prediction vs Qarabag FK: What to Expect
As Tottenham Hotspur prepares to take on Qarabag FK in a crucial European fixture, manager Ange Postecoglou faces the delicate task of balancing squad rotation and maintaining form. With the Premier League in full swing and a packed schedule ahead, it’s likely that Spurs will rotate their squad for this midweek fixture while still ensuring they field a competitive team capable of handling the challenge posed by the Azerbaijani side.
Under the leadership of Postecoglou, Spurs have been enjoying a solid start to the 2024/25 season. A reshaped style of play, characterized by high pressing, attacking football, and positional fluidity, has led to a resurgence in confidence and results. The team has looked cohesive, and players like James Maddison, Son Heung-min, and Yves Bissouma have stepped up, leading Tottenham’s charge in both domestic and European competitions.
However, this fixture against Qarabag comes amidst a heavy run of fixtures, with key Premier League games on the horizon. Given the significance of maintaining momentum in the league, Postecoglou may take this opportunity to rest some key players, giving fringe players and youth prospects a chance to shine.
1. Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario
– With Vicario firmly establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League, this European fixture might present an opportunity for him to continue his form. Although some might expect Fraser Forster to step in, Postecoglou may keep Vicario in the squad for stability and rhythm.
2. Right-Back: Pedro Porro
– Pedro Porro has been a regular starter at right-back under Postecoglou, and his attacking presence makes him a perfect fit for this system. Against Qarabag, Porro’s forward runs and crossing ability could prove crucial. His chemistry with the wingers will likely be an important facet of Spurs’ game plan.
3. Centre-Back: Davinson Sánchez
– With Cristian Romero a staple in the Premier League, Postecoglou could rotate here, giving Davinson Sánchez a rare starting opportunity. Sánchez, who has struggled for consistency in the past, will be eager to prove his worth and push for more game time as the season progresses.
4. Centre-Back: Eric Dier
– Eric Dier, Tottenham’s versatile defensive stalwart, may find himself partnering with Sánchez in this game. While Dier has not been a guaranteed starter this season, his leadership and experience in European competition are invaluable, and this could be a perfect chance for him to re-establish himself in the squad.
5. Left-Back: Ben Davies
– Ben Davies remains a dependable option at left-back and offers a wealth of European experience. He might be called upon to replace Destiny Udogie, who has been excelling in league matches. Davies’ tactical awareness and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively make him a solid choice for this game.
6. Defensive Midfielder: Pierre-Emile Højbjerg
– Højbjerg is expected to feature in this game after not being heavily involved in Tottenham’s league matches. As a combative midfielder with an eye for a pass, he will likely anchor the midfield, providing defensive cover while also helping to build up play from deeper positions.
7. Central Midfielder: Oliver Skipp
– Oliver Skipp is another player who could benefit from squad rotation in this fixture. Skipp has often been used in cup competitions and midweek games, and this could be a perfect chance for him to play alongside Højbjerg, ensuring Tottenham maintains control of the midfield.
8. Attacking Midfielder: Giovani Lo Celso
– Lo Celso’s creative spark and vision could be vital in breaking down Qarabag’s defense. While James Maddison has been excellent in the league, Lo Celso could step in to offer a fresh perspective in attack, providing key passes and linking up with the forwards. This fixture is a great opportunity for the Argentine to demonstrate his ability to pull the strings in the middle of the park.
9. Right-Wing: Manor Solomon
– With Dejan Kulusevski likely to be rested, Manor Solomon could feature on the right flank. The Israeli winger has the pace and trickery to cause problems for Qarabag’s full-backs, and this game provides an ideal platform for him to build confidence and form.
10. Striker: Richarlison
– The Brazilian forward has had an inconsistent start to the season but will likely get the nod upfront as Postecoglou rotates Harry Kane’s successor. Richarlison, who can play as both a central striker and on the wing, will be eager to regain his sharpness and show he can be a reliable goal-scorer for Spurs in European competition.
11. Left-Wing: Ivan Perišić
– The veteran Croatian winger may start on the left in place of Son Heung-min, who is expected to be rested for upcoming Premier League fixtures. Perišić’s experience and ability to deliver dangerous crosses into the box could be crucial, and his work rate and tactical intelligence will offer Spurs stability on the flank.
In terms of tactics, Ange Postecoglou is likely to stick to his principles of possession-based football, emphasizing quick transitions and high pressing. Spurs will aim to dominate the ball and move it quickly through the midfield, using Lo Celso’s creativity to unlock the Qarabag defense.
Qarabag will likely set up with a defensive structure, looking to frustrate Tottenham and play on the counter. This means Spurs must be patient and clinical when they create chances, with Perišić and Solomon looking to stretch the Qarabag defense and Richarlison capitalizing on any openings.
-Giovani Lo Celso: The Argentine playmaker’s ability to create scoring opportunities will be crucial in this game. His vision and passing range could unlock a stubborn Qarabag defense.
-Richarlison: The Brazilian forward has struggled with form, but a good performance in this fixture could boost his confidence and help him find the back of the net.
Pierre-Emile Højbjerg: As the defensive anchor, Højbjerg will be tasked with breaking up Qarabag’s counter-attacks and keeping Spurs in control of the midfield battle.
With squad rotation in mind, Tottenham Hotspur should still have more than enough quality to overcome Qarabag FK. Postecoglou’s men will look to balance the demands of multiple competitions, and this match offers a perfect chance for fringe players to stake their claim for regular first-team football. The key will be maintaining intensity and focus, ensuring that Spurs can avoid any slip-ups and move forward in their European campaign with confidence.
