Tottenham vs Brighton Preview

• Brighton to win
• Over 2.5 goals

Tottenham Hotspur ended their 17-year wait for silverware in midweek with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final. Brennan Johnson was the hero on the night, scoring the decisive goal to crown Spurs champions of Europe for the first time since their League Cup triumph in 2008. The result will bring enormous relief to under-pressure manager Ange Postecoglou, whose job security had come into question amid a disastrous domestic campaign.

The win also means Postecoglou can now point to a major honour in just his second season at the club — a trend he’s followed throughout his managerial career.

Whether that is enough to justify a third season remains to be seen, but European glory has undeniably lifted spirits around the club.

A Season of Domestic Underachievement

Despite their continental success, Tottenham’s league form remains a cause for concern. The London club comes into the final round of the 2024/25 Premier League season languishing in 16th — the lowest-ranked surviving side in the division. Another defeat here would be their 22nd in 38 games, setting a new Premier League record for most losses in a single season by a non-relegated team.

They also haven’t won any of their last six league matches (D1, L5), so optimism is in short supply. The hope is that the high of the Europa League triumph will spill into the final game of the season, but history suggests it won’t be straightforward. Spurs threw away a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 against Brighton in the reverse fixture — a result emblematic of the frailties that have defined their campaign.

Brighton on the Up

In stark contrast, Brighton are finishing the season in fine form under Fabian Hürzeler. A strong run of three wins and a draw from their last four matches has secured a top-half finish. Eighth or ninth remains in play depending on the weekend’s results, and that marks clear progress on their 11th-place finish last term under Roberto De Zerbi.

They arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium full of confidence after a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over Liverpool, and will be eyeing their first-ever league double over Spurs. Brighton have been solid on the road too, particularly against teams in the bottom half — winning six of their nine away league games against such sides this season (D2, L1).

Brighton’s squad also looks hungry to end the campaign strongly. Their fluid attacking style and robust midfield have caused problems for teams all season, and they’ll back themselves to get on the scoresheet against a Spurs side who have looked leaky in defence.

Tactical Match-up

Expect Brighton to dominate possession in phases, as Spurs are likely to rotate heavily following their Europa League final exertions. The visitors’ energy in midfield and precise wing play could stretch Tottenham, whose full-backs have often been exposed in recent games. For Spurs, the key will be rediscovering some cohesion and balance — something that has eluded them for much of the season.

Postecoglou may look to fringe players and promising youngsters in this match, both to preserve key starters and to give others a final opportunity to prove their value before a likely summer rebuild.

Players to Watch

Brennan Johnson was Tottenham’s match-winner in the Europa League final and is ending the season in strong form. He has consistently been a livewire in the final third, and his goal against Manchester United was his fifth in European competition this season.

With momentum on his side and confidence soaring, he’ll be looking to finish the domestic campaign on a high.

For Brighton, Danny Welbeck has been central to their recent upturn in form. The experienced striker netted the winner in the reverse fixture and has scored three goals in his last five Premier League outings.

Welbeck’s movement, aerial presence, and knack for popping up in crucial moments make him a key figure in this final-day encounter.

Hot Stat

A league-high 70% of Brighton’s Premier League matches this season have produced over 2.5 total goals. With both teams adopting attacking mindsets and boasting plenty of forward threat, another high-scoring contest could be on the cards.

Prediction

Tottenham’s European triumph may have lifted spirits, but their domestic form remains patchy. Brighton’s recent performances, both home and away, suggest they’re finishing the season strongly and should provide a stern test. If Spurs rotate heavily or struggle for motivation, Brighton could well leave North London with all three points.

Prediction: Tottenham 1-3 Brighton

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Spurs v Brighton, 2024/25 | Premier League