Tottenham face Juventus on Wednesday evening in what is the North London side’s biggest test of the season so far. The tie is well balanced at 2-2, however, Tottenham’s two away goals in Turin may prove decisive. The Italians have lost two of the past three finals and club legend Gianluigi Buffon is coming to the end of his playing days. Juventus will be desperate to win the tie and the competition overall. Tottenham gave away two penalties in the first leg and a very sloppy opening goal in the opening minutes so their defence will have to up their game if Spurs are to grab a historic victory at Wembley.
Tottenham v Juventus
Pace or Finesse?
Tottenham have struggled for attacking options this season. However, with the return of Erik Lamela from a long-term injury and signing of Lucas Moura from PSG, Pochettino suddenly has an embarrassment of riches. Son was Man of the Match on Saturday and took both his goals very well. Pochettino more often than not will start fellow countryman Lamela when fit. However, if Pochettino does not start Son then it will be a very controversial decision. It may also lead to Tottenham having very limited pace, presuming Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen are the other attacking midfielders starting.
Moura has impressed when played at Spurs so far. However, he had next to zero playing time at PSG for the first half of the season, so will most likely be seen off the bench if at all. In terms of striking options, the only decision the Argentine has to make is what colour boots Harry Kane will wear.
Injuries
Centre-back Toby Alderweireld recently picked up another knock so is expected to be out. Harry Winks and Victor Wanyama are both still returning from injury and neither are expected to start. For Juventus, Juan Cuadrado and Mattia De Sciglio are out while winger Federico Bernardeschi is a doubt.
Prediction
Juventus are a very defensive team and attempted to park the bus after going 2-0 up in the first leg. Attacking top sides away from home isn’t their style. Given the fact that they are chasing the tie, they will be out of their comfort zone. Tottenham have one of the deadliest strikers in world football; playing on the counter may reap rewards for the North Londoners. However the same can be said for Juventus with Higuain. It is vital that Spurs do not defend the same way they did in the first half in Turin.
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