The second leg of the round of 16 Europa League tie between Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund promises to be an exciting clash, with the German side in a commanding position after a 3-0 home win in the first leg last week.
While both teams are looking to overturn a five-point deficit in their respective domestic leagues, Dortmund hold a distinct advantage over Tottenham Hotspur after earning a convincing win over the North London club at the Westfalenstadion last week.
Currently on a 12-match unbeaten streak, Thomas Tuchel’s men will look to capitalize on a three-goal aggregate lead to ensure qualification for the quarter-finals of the Europa League. With Arsenal breathing down their neck, Spurs would loathe to lose their advantage in the Premier League by overcommitting in Europe. However, playing in front of an adoring home crowd, it is highly unlikely that Mauricio Pochettino will throw in the towel in this crucial European fixture.
Lineups
Tottenham Hotspur
After fielding a relatively weakened side in the first leg of the tie, Pochettino is expected to start with a strong lineup on Thursday. Jan Vertonghen and Clinton N’Jie remain unavailable for the fixture. Christian Eriksen and Mousa Dembele are expected to be rested against Dortmund.
Probable Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Lloris (GK); Trippier, Wimmer, Davies, Alderweireld; Carroll, Dier; Son, Alli, Lamela; Kane
Borussia Dortmund
Sven Bender and Ilkay Gundogan are doubtful for the fixture along with Erik Durm.
Probable Starting XI (4-3-3): Weidenfeller (GK); Piszczek, Sokratis, Hummels, Schmelzer; Weigl, Kagawa, Castro; Mkhitaryan, Reus, Aubameyang
Key Facts:
- Borussia Dortmund are currently unbeaten in 12 fixtures in all competitions.
- Only Valencia (against Basel in 2013-14) have managed to overturn a 3-0 loss in the first leg of a knockout tie in Europa League history.
- Dortmund’s defence has not been breached in 327 minutes of European competition.
- Tottenham Hotspur have only managed to win 2 of their last 5 fixtures in all competitions.
- Spurs are the leading goal-scorers in the English Premier League.
Prediction
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Borussia Dortmund
While the German side is expected to make it to the quarter-finals of the Europa League, the home team could snatch a win — albeit only as consolation — in the second leg of the tie.
Betting Odds (bet365)
Tottenham Hotspur – 12/5
Draw – 13/5
Borussia Dortmund – 6/5