Tottenham Hotspur vs AZ: Europa League Clash – Key Insights and Predictions
The Europa League showdown, Tottenham Hotspur vs AZ, promises an exhilarating spectacle; both teams are eager to excel. The Tottenham Hotspur season has been mixed. Just weeks ago, the Spurs defeated West Ham after suffering an embarrassing 3-0 loss against Brighton. Riding high on momentum, Spurs’ first encounter against AZ Alkmaar is set up, hoping to keep their unbeaten status in UEFA Europa League football intact. Two Europa League victories following back-to-back wins in the Premier League have Spurs ready to make a significant impact under Ange Postecoglou.
Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar face a tougher challenge as they attempt to halt a worrying run of form. The high stakes in this matchup promise drama and intense action on the pitch.
Form Analysis
Tottenham’s Tactical Edge: A Strong Home Record
Ange Postecoglou’s European experience continues to shine through. The coach’s tactical smarts saw Spurs prevail 2-1 in their last Europa League away encounter against Ferencváros. Being that Celtic defeated AZ Alkmaar 2-0 in the 2021/22 Europa League group stage while he was manager, Postecoglou knows what to expect from this Dutch side. One should note that Tottenham has a terrific home record in Europe since the 2020-21 campaign; they’ve been unbeaten in 14 games (12 wins, 2 draws).
AZ’s Struggles: Pressure Mounts on Maarten Martens
Maarten Martens is under a lot of pressure. The defeat by Eredivisie champions PSV marked the fourth-consecutive loss for PSV-their longest since 2002. Their defense has only conceded twice in the last four games, which was a significant advantage until their inability to score goals began to impede their progress. Their last away game was against Athletic Clube, which they lost 2-0, raising concerns for their remaining away games in the group stage.
Tottenham Hotspur vs AZ: Key Players to Watch
Pape Matar Sarr, a young midfielder for Tottenham, has been outstanding, contributing to the team’s recent victory over West Ham and scoring in both of their Europa League games. Also in focus will be Troy Parrott, now an AZ player, after a few years at Tottenham. After scoring in AZ’s first Europa League match this season, Parrott will want to make an impact against his former side.
Tottenham’s young midfielder Pape Matar Sarr is shining at the moment, scoring in both Spurs’ Europa League matches and providing an assist in their last win versus West Ham. All eyes will also be on Troy Parrott, in this time at AZ, having spent several years with Tottenham, as he aims to maintain a hot streak. Parrott scored in AZ’s first Europa League match this season and will seek a meaningful role in this one against his former side.
Starting Lineups
Tottenham Hotspur: Vicario; Gray, Dragusin, Davies, Udogie; Sarr, Bentancur, Bergvall; Moore, Richarlison, Werner.
AZ Alkmaar: Owusu-Oduro; Maikuma, Penetra, Dekker, Wolfe; Clasie, Mijnans, Koopmeiners; Buurmeester, Parrott, Van Bommel.
Tottenham Hotspur vs AZ: Betting Opportunities
Considering the strong home form of Tottenham and the recent struggles of AZ, it is only natural that Tottenham are favorites to win. Odds on GSB heavily favor a Tottenham victory at (1.43). Not that AZ has no chance; however, odds of 6.00 suggest long odds in that event, though an inspired performance could surprise many.
Key Betting Odds:
- Tottenham win: 1.43
- AZ win: 6.00
Prediction
With strong home form at Tottenham and AZ struggling right now, Tottenham are rightfully the favorites in this match. Each of the last seven Tottenham matches has seen at least 2.5 goals; by all appearances, this trend may well continue into this match. Expect Tottenham Hotspur to win by a 3-1 vote.
