Supercomputer predicts whether Tottenham will defeat AZ Alkmaar in Europa League

Tottenham Hotspur, once considered strong contenders to clinch the Europa League title, have seen their chances of lifting the trophy take a significant blow.

According to the latest AI projections, their probability of winning the competition has plummeted to a mere 9.8%, marking a stark decline from earlier forecasts. This dramatic shift has left fans and pundits alike questioning the team’s ability to navigate the challenges ahead and emerge victorious in Europe’s second-tier club competition.

The AI’s predictions have also delivered a shocking revelation in the knockout stages, forecasting a crushing 4-0 home defeat for Rangers at the hands of Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.

This result, if it materializes, would bring Rangers’ European campaign to an abrupt and emphatic end. The algorithm, which has processed thousands of simulations to map out the most probable paths for each team, has identified Manchester United as the likely winners of the tournament.

However, football is a game of unpredictability, and while AI models excel at crunching numbers, they cannot account for the human element and the sheer drama that often unfolds on the pitch.

Despite the AI’s projections, many football analysts still regard Tottenham as one of the strongest teams remaining in the Europa League. Some even predict that Spurs could progress further than Manchester United in the competition.

For Ange Postecoglou’s side to achieve this, they would need to overturn a one-goal deficit at home—a challenge that, while daunting, is far from insurmountable. The team’s resilience and tactical acumen will be put to the test as they aim to keep their European dreams alive.

In the meantime, Tottenham’s focus shifts to the Premier League, where they are set to host AFC Bournemouth at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

After suffering back-to-back defeats, Spurs are eager to return to winning ways and regain momentum in their domestic campaign. With a crucial second leg in the Europa League looming, a strong performance against Bournemouth is essential to boost morale and confidence.

Bournemouth, managed by Andoni Iraola, will pose a significant challenge. The Cherries secured a narrow 1-0 victory the last time these two sides met, and they will be looking to complete a league double over their London opponents. Tottenham, however, will be determined to exact revenge and demonstrate their quality on home turf.

As the match approaches, speculation surrounds the starting lineup that Postecoglou will field. In goal, Guglielmo Vicario is expected to continue his run of starts. Since returning from injury, the Italian shot-stopper has been a model of composure, delivering crucial saves in recent outings. His performance will be pivotal if Spurs are to keep Bournemouth at bay.

In defense, Pedro Porro is likely to reclaim his place at right-back after being rested in the midweek fixture. Despite a limited impact off the bench, Porro remains Tottenham’s most reliable option in that position.

At center-back, Cristian Romero could make a timely return to the starting XI. The Argentine defender, recently called up to the national team, brings leadership and solidity to the backline. Alongside him, Kevin Danso is expected to retain his spot, having impressed since his arrival at the club.

On the left flank, Djed Spence is tipped to start. With rotation unnecessary at this stage, Spence’s inclusion would provide stability and allow the team to build rhythm ahead of the Europa League second leg. In midfield, Yves Bissouma is likely to anchor the team, offering a fresh presence after a lackluster collective performance in the previous match.

Rodrigo Bentancur, free from midweek commitments due to suspension, should retain his place, while Pape Matar Sarr could be handed a start to inject energy and creativity into the center of the park.

Further forward, Heung-min Son is expected to lead the line despite a subdued performance in the last outing. The Tottenham captain, with ten goals and ten assists across all competitions this season, remains a key figure in the team’s attacking setup.

On the opposite flank, Brennan Johnson is set to continue as the right winger, especially with Dejan Kulusevski sidelined due to injury. Johnson has been one of Tottenham’s standout performers in front of goal and will be relied upon to deliver once again.

Up front, Mathys Tel is likely to spearhead the attack. The young Frenchman has faced challenges in leading the line, but with Richarlison still unavailable and Dominic Solanke nursing a knock, Tel is the most viable option to start as the central striker.

As Tottenham prepare for this crucial Premier League encounter, the stakes are high. A victory would not only provide a much-needed boost in the league standings but also set a positive tone for the decisive Europa League clash ahead.

With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, Spurs will be aiming to put on a show for their fans and reignite their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts. The question remains: will this predicted lineup deliver the desired result, or will Bournemouth once again prove to be a thorn in Tottenham’s side? Only time will tell.