Tottenham HotspurvsAZ Alkmaar

The Stage is Set

Tottenham Hotspur and AZ Alkmaar are gearing up for a thrilling encounter. Spurs are in a precarious position in the Premier League, sitting 15th, but they've shown resilience in cup competitions. Their recent 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim in the Europa League is a testament to their fighting spirit. However, the absence of striker Dominic Solanke due to a knee injury is a significant blow. The team is also exploring transfer options, with Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord being a potential target.

AZ Alkmaar's Momentum

AZ Alkmaar is riding high on a 12-game unbeaten streak, including a recent 1-0 victory over Roma in the Europa League. They sit sixth in the Eredivisie and have a strong defensive record, conceding only 19 goals this season. Their European pedigree is notable, having qualified for UEFA tournaments 22 times. AZ's recent form is impressive, and they have scored in 12 consecutive matches, showcasing their attacking prowess.

Head-to-Head Dynamics

The first leg saw AZ Alkmaar edge out Tottenham with a 1-0 victory. Historically, AZ has performed better in the Europa League than Spurs. Tottenham's recent form is concerning, with a streak of two matches without scoring. However, they average two goals at home, while AZ averages 1.58 goals away. This sets the stage for a potentially high-scoring affair.

Prediction

Given the current form and circumstances, a draw seems the most likely outcome. Both teams are expected to score, considering their attacking capabilities and recent performances. Tottenham's home advantage and AZ's momentum balance each other out, making this a closely contested match.