A final spot in the semifinals of the EFL Cup is on the line as Tottenham Hotspur welcomes Manchester United to North London for an exciting quarterfinal showdown. Both teams are eager to secure their place in the next round, adding to the anticipation surrounding this high-stakes match.
Tottenham have often been their own worst enemy and they have only themselves to blame for their struggles. In recent weeks, Ange Postecoglou faced significant pressure due to a series of disappointing results, with the team managing only one win in eight games across all competitions.
Despite this, the Spurs manager was optimistic about his team’s reaction, and they delivered a stellar performance against relegation favourites Southampton, showcasing their quality early in the match. Spurs ran riot at St Mary’s a result that was ultimately the final nail in the coffin for now sacked Russel Martin.
The Spurs currently sit in 10th place in the Premier League standings after 16 games, but they are only five points away from the top four.
Coach Postecoglou has successfully maintained the sharpness of the attacking line despite the team’s inconsistent performances this season. Only Chelsea, who are performing exceptionally well, has scored more goals, with 37, compared to Spurs’ total of 36.
Tottenham Hotspur will first focus on their EFL Cup clash against a resurgent Manchester United as they aim to advance to the semifinals for the third time in five years. Following this match, Spurs will host league leaders Liverpool on Sunday and then travel to the City Ground to face fourth-place Nottingham Forest.
Tottenham defeated Manchester City 2-1 in the fourth round of the EFL Cup at the end of October. To keep their Cup dream alive, they need to end their four-game winless streak at home. This is the longest run without a victory in front of their own fans since 2008, the same year they last won a major trophy: the EFL Cup.
Newly appointed Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim has made a strong comeback, having won his last two away games against Viktoria Plzen and rival Manchester City after experiencing back-to-back defeats to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest.
Shortly after achieving a significant Europa League victory against Viktoria Plzen in Czechia, the Red Devils appeared on the brink of another derby defeat at the Etihad Stadium. However, they orchestrated an incredible comeback, with captain Bruno Fernandes converting a late penalty in the 88th minute, followed by a spectacular winner from Amad Diallo in the 90th minute.
Although the Red Devils currently sit in 13th place in the Premier League table, they are only six points away from the top four. Amorim hopes that the belief and determination demonstrated by his players in their match against Man City will continue into their upcoming fixtures.
Man United, six-time EFL Cup champions, must turn their attention at tonight’s trip to North London to face Spurs whom they have failed to beat in each of their last four encounters.
Nevertheless, the Red Devils will feel confident about their chances for success in North London, having won their last six EFL Cup away matches. During this streak, they defeated teams such as Chelsea and Manchester City.
Written by Marc Strydom.