Unai Emery’s Aston Villa face Tottenham Hotspur this weekend, with the Spaniard coaching a double over Spurs last season. This tie looks set to be a thriller, jam-packed with action, as the two clubs are among the most in-form in the Premier League.
Tottenham
Spurs have been a breath of fresh air under Ange Postecoglou, playing fluid, total football regardless of game state or opponent. That is reflected in their fourth-place position after 12 matches, where they have netted 24 goals and suffered only 15. Tottenham are also one of only three sides to have scored in every game this season, and they’ve won four of their five home matches.
Prior to the international break, the Lilywhites produced their least convincing performance of the season in a 2-1 defeat to Wolves, which is understandable given that three-quarters of their defence was either suspended or injured. Spurs looked set to claim another victory until the home side scored two goals after additional time.
Aston Villa
If the Villans continue to perform at the standards set after 12 matches, then qualification for the UEFA Champions League could be achievable. The squad possesses quality in depth, and each individual has bought into Emery’s philosophy, making them a formidable unit. Villa have netted the second-highest number of goals this season (29), which has helped them get over the line in matches where they have been leaky. The attack-minded approach has led to Villa only keeping two clean sheets in 12 matches.
Last time out, Aston Villa cruised to a 3-1 home win over Fulham. The win increased their points tally to 25, which places them in 5th ahead of the weekend. John McGinn is on fire at the moment, and he grabbed a goal, demonstrating the ever-growing influence he is having on the attack.
Verdict?
This weekend, Ange will have to prepare his side for the relentless press of Villa. The game may bypass the midfield on occasions due to both teams deploying a high line, but this provides the more direct option of playing in behind the defence, utilising the pace and movement of Ollie Watkins and Heung-min Son. The tie could become scrappy, like Spurs’ 4-1 defeat to Chelsea, therefore, discipline will be key.
The fixture should see goals at both ends of the field, and both teams scoring seems extremely likely. Both sets of fans will believe that their side can win this game, but the sheer number of key players out for Tottenham is difficult to ignore.
The final prediction is Tottenham 2-2 Aston Villa.
