Tottenham will host Liverpool in a highly anticipated EFL Cup semi-final first-leg clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tonight. Both sides have had challenging routes to this stage of the competition, with Spurs looking to capitalise on home advantage despite a defensive crisis, while Liverpool aim to assert their dominance in domestic cup competitions alongside their fantastic run in the Premier League this season.
Tottenham Hotspur Recent Form
Tottenham have gone through a challenging run recently, highlighted by a lack of consistency and an ever-mounting injury list. They suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Newcastle last weekend, marking a run of just one point in their last four league games.
However, they have showed some resilience in the EFL Cup, overcoming Manchester United in a fantastic 4-3 game to reach this tie with Liverpool.
Injury and Team News
Spurs continue to face a defensive crisis, with key players such as Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Ben Davies unavailable due to injuries.
Illness has further weakened the squad, with Radu Dragusin and Archie Gray doubtful. Promising signing Antonin Kinsky could debut in goal. Midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur returns from suspension to bolster their options.
Last Tottenham Lineup
Liverpool Recent Form
Liverpool remain at the top of their game, despite the weekend's 2-2 draw against Manchester United that halted their four-match winning streak.
The Reds lead the Premier League table by six points and have been clinical in the EFL Cup, defeating Southampton, Brighton, and West Ham to get to this point. They’ve scored ten goals in three cup matches while heavily rotating their squad, so players are rested and they're likely to continue their run into the final tonight.
Injury and Team News
Liverpool’s squad is relatively healthy, with Joe Gomez the only confirmed absentee. Dominik Szoboszlai may return after illness, while Conor Bradley is back from injury.
Key players like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are likely to be rested, giving younger talents such as Jarell Quansah and Harvey Elliott more opportunities to shine.
Last Liverpool Lineup
Tottenham Player To Watch
*Heung-Min Son
Son remains Tottenham’s most consistent attacking outlet and a critical player in Ange Postecoglou's system. His ability to exploit defensive gaps will be vital given Liverpool’s attacking intent.
Liverpool Player To Watch
Darwin Nunez
Nunez has been a consistent threat in Liverpool’s cup fixtures this season, combining pace and physicality to unsettle defences. He could be key in capitalising on Spurs’ depleted backline.
Prediction
Despite Tottenham’s home advantage, Liverpool’s depth and form make them favourites. Spurs’ defensive frailties could result in another high-scoring game.
Our Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-4 Liverpool
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score (Yes) - With Spurs’ defensive issues and Liverpool’s attacking strength, goals are likely from both sides.
Tip 2
Liverpool to win - The Reds’ momentum and superior squad depth give them a significant edge.
Tip 3
Over 3.5 goals - Recent clashes between these teams have been goal-fests, and this match should be no exception.
