Tottenham vs Liverpool Preview

• Liverpool to win
• Gakpo to score

Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool lock horns in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals, with both sides eyeing a place in the Wembley showpiece.

Spurs are desperate to end their long trophy drought, while Liverpool aim to defend their title and extend their dominance in domestic cup competitions.

Tottenham Hotspur: Fighting Against the Odds

Spurs’ hopes of silverware hinge on this semi-final clash, but their recent form raises concerns. Since their thrilling 4-3 quarter-final victory over Manchester United, Ange Postecoglou’s side have gone four games without a win (D1, L3).

Injuries and illness have further compounded their struggles, leaving the squad stretched and forcing Postecoglou to rely on reinforcements from the January transfer market.

The arrival of goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky could offer some defensive stability, with Spurs managing just one clean sheet in their last 11 matches across all competitions.

Dominic Solanke has been a bright spot, leading the team in League Cup goals (2) and boasting three goal contributions in his last four appearances against Liverpool (1 goal, 2 assists).

Tottenham’s task is monumental against the runaway Premier League leaders, but home advantage and their cup pedigree could inspire a spirited performance.

Liverpool: Focused on Glory

Liverpool arrive in north London as firm favourites, boasting an unbeaten away record in all competitions since April (W12, D4).

The Reds have showcased their attacking prowess in this season’s League Cup, averaging over three goals per game, with Cody Gakpo leading the charge (4 goals, 1 assist).

Gakpo is on the brink of a personal milestone, needing just one goal to record four consecutive scoring appearances since joining Liverpool.

Arne Slot’s side, however, aren’t without vulnerabilities. Their 2-2 draw against a struggling Manchester United over the weekend highlighted defensive frailties, with Liverpool yet to keep a clean sheet in the competition.

Nonetheless, their ability to outscore opponents has carried them through, and their unbeaten run in the League Cup now stands at nine games.

With a commanding away record and their sights set on back-to-back League Cup titles, Liverpool are well-positioned to take control of this semi-final tie.

Key Players to Watch

Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur)

Solanke’s contributions in the League Cup and his familiarity with Liverpool’s defence make him a key figure for Spurs. His ability to link play and finish clinically will be vital in Tottenham’s attempts to challenge Liverpool’s backline.

Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)

Gakpo has been Liverpool’s standout performer in this season’s League Cup, contributing to five goals (4 goals, 1 assist). His recent scoring form and versatility in attack make him a constant threat, and he will look to exploit Spurs’ defensive vulnerabilities.

Tactical Insights and Key Battles

Spurs’ Defensive Frailties vs Liverpool’s Attack

Tottenham’s injury-riddled defence faces a daunting challenge against Liverpool’s relentless attack. With Gakpo, Darwin Núñez, and Mohamed Salah in form, Spurs must remain compact and disciplined to avoid being overwhelmed.

Midfield Control

Liverpool’s dynamic midfield trio, led by Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, will look to dominate possession and dictate the tempo.

Tottenham’s midfield, featuring Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Yves Bissouma, must disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm and create opportunities on the counter-attack.

Set-Pieces

Set-pieces could play a crucial role in this clash. Both sides possess aerial threats, with Virgil van Dijk for Liverpool and Cristian Romero for Spurs likely to be key figures in both defensive and attacking situations.

Predicted Outcome

Liverpool’s attacking firepower and unbeaten away record make them favourites to claim a first-leg advantage. Tottenham’s injury woes and defensive struggles may limit their ability to contain Liverpool’s forwards, but home support could inspire a spirited performance.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1-3 Liverpool

Final Thoughts

This semi-final first leg promises to be a compelling contest between two sides with contrasting fortunes. Tottenham must overcome adversity to keep their hopes alive, while Liverpool will aim to take a commanding lead back to Anfield.

With players like Dominic Solanke and Cody Gakpo poised to make an impact, this encounter under the lights at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium should deliver plenty of drama.

You can find out more about this competition’s fixtures by clicking here:

Carabao Cup draw, Final date, results, fixtures, stats, rules – The English Football League