Predicted Tottenham XI to face AZ Alkmaar – Djed Spence out and Dominic Solanke in
Tottenham Hotspur travel to AFAS Stadium for a crucial Europa League Round of 16 first-leg clash against AZ Alkmaar. With high stakes in this fixture, Ange Postecoglou will be aiming to secure a strong result that positions his team well for the return leg.
The matchup rekindles their earlier encounter in the group stage, where Tottenham emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, thanks to a decisive penalty from Richarlison. However, with a spot in the quarter-finals on the line, Spurs will need a commanding performance to avoid any setbacks.
Goalkeeping duties are expected to fall on Guglielmo Vicario, as Tottenham can no longer afford heavy rotations in a competition that now defines their season.
Given the importance of this fixture, Postecoglou will likely opt for experience and consistency over experimentation. In defense, Pedro Porro remains the preferred choice at right-back, offering both defensive stability and attacking contributions.
With Ben Davies returning from a short injury spell, he is expected to reclaim his place in central defense, partnering with Kevin Danso, as Cristian Romero’s return from injury might still be premature for a start.
The left-back position could see Djed Spence getting the nod, as his recent omission from the starting lineup suggests he has become a key figure in Postecoglou’s plans, allowing Destiny Udogie to rest.
In midfield, Lucas Bergvall could feature in the pivot role, with Yves Bissouma’s absence from recent starting lineups indicating a shift in Postecoglou’s preferences.
Bergvall has shown maturity beyond his years, and the manager may trust him to dictate play against AZ Alkmaar. Rodrigo Bentancur remains indispensable in midfield, and his ongoing contract negotiations underscore his importance to the squad.
Dejan Kulusevski may be deployed centrally in place of James Maddison, who could be given a rest after his extended minutes against Manchester City. This tactical adjustment would allow Tottenham to maintain their attacking rhythm while managing squad fitness.
Heung-min Son, left out of the Manchester City match, is expected to return to the starting eleven. With ten goals and ten assists this season, his leadership and goal-scoring ability will be crucial.
Up front, Dominic Solanke could make his first start after a month-long injury absence, having resumed full training last week. If Solanke is deemed unfit to start, Mathys Tel remains a reliable alternative.
Brennan Johnson, in excellent goal-scoring form with fourteen goals across all competitions, should take his place on the right flank, providing Spurs with additional attacking firepower.
| Position | Player | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Guglielmo Vicario | First-choice, consistent performances |
| Right-back | Pedro Porro | Strong attacking presence, defensively reliable |
| Centre-back | Ben Davies | Returning from injury, experienced option |
| Centre-back | Kevin Danso | Likely starter with Romero not yet match-fit |
| Left-back | Djed Spence | Emerging key player, offers pace and width |
| Pivot Midfielder | Lucas Bergvall | Young but trusted, replacing Bissouma |
| Central Midfielder | Rodrigo Bentancur | Regular starter, crucial for midfield control |
| Central Midfielder | Dejan Kulusevski | Could replace Maddison for rotation purposes |
| Left Midfielder | Heung-min Son | Expected return, key attacking outlet |
| Striker | Dominic Solanke | Back from injury, potential first start |
| Right Midfielder | Brennan Johnson | In form, adding goal threat to the lineup |
With Postecoglou needing a statement performance in Europe, Tottenham will rely on their attacking strength to take control of the tie early. While AZ Alkmaar cannot be underestimated, Spurs have the firepower to secure an advantage before heading back to North London.