Tottenham Hotspur will head to Istanbul on Thursday night, looking to keep their flawless Europa League record intact as they take on Turkish champions Galatasaray.
With three wins from three European matches this season, Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs are in high spirits and aiming to maintain their momentum.
However, injuries threaten to dampen their chances as they face a formidable Galatasaray team that has also been on a roll. Here’s your ultimate guide to this thrilling matchup, complete with predictions, potential lineups, and how to watch.
Tottenham’s Europa League Journey So Far
Tottenham Hotspur have been unstoppable in the Europa League this season. They’ve brushed past Qarabag, Ferencvaros, and AZ Alkmaar, positioning themselves just behind Lazio in the standings.
Even with significant squad rotation, Spurs have managed to showcase a balanced team capable of both defensive solidity and attacking flair.
Their form in domestic competitions has also been impressive, bouncing back from a disappointing loss to Crystal Palace with victories over Manchester City in the Carabao Cup and Aston Villa in the Premier League.
However, this trip to Istanbul presents a unique challenge. Tottenham’s defensive lineup will likely be patched up due to injuries, leaving them vulnerable against Galatasaray’s potent attack.
With players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven in doubt and Richarlison sidelined, Ange Postecoglou faces the task of adjusting his squad without compromising on quality.
Predicted Tottenham lineup (4-3-3):
Vicario; Gray, Dragusin, Davies, Udogie; Bergvall, Bissouma, Maddison; Moore, Solanke, Werner.
Galatasaray’s Strong Form and Home Advantage
Galatasaray have been impressive both domestically and in Europe this season. They currently lead the Turkish Super Lig and come into this match on the back of a thrilling 4-3 victory over Elfsborg.
Known for their aggressive and high-paced style, Gala have been involved in goal-heavy games in the Europa League so far, with 15 goals scored across their three fixtures. They’ve picked up seven points, and their performance has been buoyed by an enthusiastic fan base at RAMS Park.
The addition of Napoli loanee Victor Osimhen to their squad has been a major boost, and he will likely test Tottenham’s injury-hit defense.
Galatasaray’s roster also includes several former Premier League players like ex-Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira, ex-Spurs defender Davinson Sanchez, and Gabriel Sara, who joined from Norwich. This mix of experience and youthful energy is likely to make life tough for their English visitors.
Predicted Galatasaray lineup (4-2-3-1):
Muslera; Ayhan, Sanchez, Bardakci, Jelert; Torreira, Sara; Yilmaz, Mertens, Akgun; Osimhen.
Key Matchups to Watch
Osimhen vs Spurs Defense
Tottenham’s depleted backline may struggle to contain Victor Osimhen, whose speed, strength, and finishing ability make him a constant threat.
With Romero and van de Ven doubtful, Spurs will likely field a makeshift center-back pairing of Dragusin and Davies. This could open up opportunities for Osimhen to exploit any gaps and get in behind Spurs’ defense.
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Torreira and Sara vs Bissouma and Maddison
Midfield control will be crucial in this game, as both teams prefer to play with high tempo and forward momentum.
Lucas Torreira’s defensive skills will be pivotal in breaking up Tottenham’s play, while Gabriel Sara has shown an eye for distribution. Tottenham’s midfield, featuring Bissouma and possibly Maddison, will need to stay compact to maintain possession and create chances.
RAMS Park Crowd vs Tottenham’s Mentality
Galatasaray’s home ground, RAMS Park, is renowned for its electric atmosphere. With the crowd roaring them on, Gala will look to unsettle Tottenham from the first whistle.
How Tottenham’s younger, less experienced players handle this pressure will be key in determining the game’s outcome.
Tactical Breakdown: What to Expect
Tottenham, despite injuries, are expected to play their usual style—high tempo, pressing, and creating chances from wide areas.
Postecoglou is likely to use players like Bergvall and Werner to stretch the pitch and open up space for Maddison to create in midfield. However, Tottenham’s weakened defense could see them concede if Galatasaray capitalizes on the counterattack.
Galatasaray, on the other hand, will try to stay compact and use their experienced forwards to press Tottenham’s backline, especially during transitions. With Osimhen leading the attack, they will look to launch quick counterattacks and exploit any lapses in Tottenham’s defensive organization.
Score Prediction: Will Spurs Hold On?
Given both teams’ recent form and the injury concerns in Tottenham’s squad, this game promises to be an open, high-scoring affair. Spurs’ weakened defense might struggle to hold back Galatasaray’s powerful offense, and with both teams known for their goal-scoring ability, this match could easily turn into a thriller.
Predicted Score: Galatasaray 3-2 Tottenham
How to Watch Galatasaray vs Tottenham
Match Details:
- Date: Thursday, 7 November
- Location: RAMS Park, Istanbul, Turkey
- Kick-off Time: 17:45 GMT / 12:45 ET / 09:45 PT
Where to Watch:
- UK: TNT Sports 1, discovery+
- US: Paramount+, fuboTV, TUDN USA, TUDN App
- Canada: DAZN
