Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction, Preview, Team News and Lineups 13.03.2025

• Date and Time: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 20:00 GMT+1
• Venue: Tottenham Stadium, London, England

Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar Preview and Team News 

Tottenham Team News

Tottenham enters this crucial second-leg fixture trailing 1-0 on aggregate after a disappointing performance in Alkmaar. The first leg was marred by an own goal from Lucas Bergvall and a lackluster attacking display, managing only one shot on target. 

Manager Ange Postecoglou has faced criticism for the team’s recent performances, with this match being pivotal for both the club’s Europa League aspirations and his tenure.

Tottenham have committed to a possession-based style of play, focusing on building from the back and creating fluid attacking movements. However, their recent performances have revealed several weaknesses. 

Defensively, despite the return of center-backs Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, the team continues to struggle with lapses in concentration and organization. The own goal in the first leg against AZ, coupled with the two goals conceded against Bournemouth (2-2), highlight their ongoing issues in maintaining a defensive structure.

In midfield, the suspension of Rodrigo Bentancur for the second leg presents a significant challenge, as his absence disrupts the balance of the team. Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr will be tasked with dictating the tempo, shielding the backline, and ensuring Tottenham do not lose control in key transitions. 

The effectiveness of this midfield duo could determine whether Tottenham can dominate possession without leaving themselves exposed to counter-attacks.

Offensively, the team has been overly reliant on wingers like Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski, who provide width and creativity. 

With Dominic Solanke struggling with injury concerns, the lack of a clear focal point in attack has resulted in inefficiencies in front of goal. Without a natural target man, Spurs have often found themselves controlling possession without creating enough clear-cut opportunities, an issue that was evident in the first leg against AZ and their recent domestic outings.

In terms of injuries, Dominic Solanke made a brief return from a knee injury in the first leg but was forced off after 20 minutes due to a back issue. His availability remains doubtful for the second leg. Additionally, midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur is suspended for this match after accumulating his third booking of the competition.

Tottenham predicted lineup vs AZ Alkmaar (4-2-3-1): Olsen; Cash, Konsa, Mings, Digne; McGinn, Tielemans; Bailey, Rogers, Rashford; Watkins.

AZ Alkmaar Team News

In the first leg against Tottenham, AZ Alkmaar secured a 1-0 victory, capitalizing on an own goal by Lucas Bergvall in the 18th minute. 

AZ’s tactical approach was characterized by disciplined defensive organization and very effective counter-attacking play. They maintained a compact shape, limiting Tottenham’s offensive options and reducing them to a single shot on target despite Spurs’ 61% possession. 

Offensively, AZ exploited spaces left by Tottenham’s advancing full-backs, with former Spurs striker Troy Parrott posing significant challenges to his former team.

Regarding injuries, midfielder Sven Mijnans is sidelined until early May 2025 due to an Achilles tendon injury, removing a key component of their midfield dynamics. Additionally, winger Jayden Addai is nursing an ankle injury, with a projected return in mid-March 2025, making his participation in the upcoming match doubtful. On a positive note, forward Mexx Meerdink has resumed training after recovering from a hamstring injury, offering manager Maarten Martens an additional attacking option.

AZ Alkmaar predicted lineup vs Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Owusu-Oduro; Maikuma, Goes, Penetra, De Wit; Clasie, Koopmeiners; Poku, Buurmeester, Lahdo; Parrott

Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction 

• Pick: Tottenham to win
• Odds: 1.48 (22Bet)
• Score prediction: Tottenham 2-0 AZ Alkmaar

Tottenham’s performance at their home ground has been notably stronger this season. Their familiarity with the pitch and support from local fans often translate into improved results. This home-field benefit could play a crucial role in overturning the first-leg deficit.​

While AZ has been impressive at home, their away record in European competitions has been less consistent. This inconsistency on the road might make them vulnerable, especially against a team eager to reclaim dominance.​ AZ previously lost 1-0 to Tottenham in the League Phase in October.

At the same time, the first-leg loss has been described by team captain Son Heung-min as a “wake-up call,” emphasizing the squad’s determination to rectify their mistakes and advance further in the competition. ​

Considering these factors, a 2-0 victory for Tottenham seems plausible, allowing them to progress on aggregate.

Tottenham vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction, Betting Tip

• Pick: Tottenham Total Over 1.5
• Odds: 1.52 (22Bet)

Tottenham will be highly motivated in this match, as winning the Europa League would be a significant achievement for a team that last claimed the trophy in 2008.

There is no doubt that the home team will launch a strong offensive, aiming to score at least two goals against their opponents.

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