Tottenham vs Elfsborg Preview

• Spurs to win
• Son to score or assist

Tottenham host Elfsborg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the final round of the UEFA Europa League league phase.

With both sides chasing a crucial result to secure their desired progression, this encounter promises to be a high-stakes affair. Here’s an in-depth preview of the game.

Tottenham Hotspur: Redemption in Europe

While Tottenham’s Premier League campaign continues to falter with a seven-game winless streak, Ange Postecoglou’s side has kept their Europa League hopes alive with a morale-boosting win at Hoffenheim last week.

Spurs need another victory here to guarantee a top-eight finish and direct progression to the round of 16.

Tottenham’s record at home in the Europa League is formidable, with a ten-game unbeaten streak (W8, D2) that includes seven clean-sheet victories.

Stretching back across 16 European home matches since 2020 (W13, D3), this impressive run highlights Spurs’ ability to deliver under the lights in North London.

Son Heung-min, rediscovering his scoring touch, will again be key as Tottenham seek to cap off their league phase campaign in style.

Elfsborg: Underdogs with a Mission

Elfsborg arrive in England with a singular focus: victory. The Swedish side, currently in pre-season after finishing seventh in the Allsvenskan, needs all three points to secure a place in the play-off round.

While their domestic form has been inconsistent, their European exploits have been surprising, including a victory over Ligue 1 side Nice in the previous round.

However, history is against Elfsborg. Their European away record is dire, with 24 goals conceded in their last eight away games, averaging three per match.

Despite their long odds, Simon Hedlund, who has been directly involved in three of Elfsborg’s UEL goals this season, will need to deliver a standout performance if the Swedish side is to pull off an upset.

Key Battles

Son Heung-min vs Elfsborg Defence

Son Heung-min’s recent resurgence in front of goal makes him Tottenham’s most dangerous attacking threat. With two goals in the first half-hour of Spurs’ last three UEL games, Son’s pace, movement, and clinical finishing will test Elfsborg’s fragile defence.

 Dejan Kulusevski vs Henriksson

If Dejan Kulusevski starts, his physical presence and playmaking abilities will demand constant attention from Elfsborg’s backline, especially Gustav Henriksson. Henriksson’s defensive positioning and composure will be critical in attempting to nullify Kulusevski’s  influence.

Simon Hedlund vs Spurs’ High Line

Simon Hedlund’s pace and ability to exploit spaces could trouble Tottenham’s high defensive line. The Swedish forward’s creative and scoring contributions will be vital if Elfsborg are to find joy on the counter.

Tactical Insights

Tottenham’s Approach

Ange Postecoglou will likely deploy an attacking setup, focusing on dominating possession and creating chances through their dynamic front line.

With Son, Richarlison, and Kulusevski providing width and movement, Tottenham will aim to stretch Elfsborg’s defence while maintaining control in midfield through Yves Bissouma.

Elfsborg’s Strategy

Elfsborg are expected to sit deep and defend compactly, relying on counter-attacking opportunities to catch Spurs off guard. Quick transitions and exploiting set-pieces will be their primary tactics, with Hedlund leading the charge.

Head-to-Head Record

This is the first competitive meeting between Tottenham and Elfsborg, adding an element of novelty to this fixture. However, Spurs’ strong home form and Elfsborg’s poor European away record suggest a challenging night for the visitors.

Predictions and Final Thoughts

Tottenham’s superior quality, home advantage, and solid Europa League form make them clear favourites for this clash.

While Elfsborg’s determination and occasional surprises cannot be underestimated, their defensive vulnerabilities and inexperience on such a stage are likely to cost them.

Predicted Scoreline: Tottenham Hotspur 3-0 Elfsborg

Son Heung-min and Tottenham’s attacking depth should secure a comfortable victory, ensuring their direct progression to the round of 16.

Conclusion

Tottenham will look to put their domestic struggles aside and deliver a commanding performance in front of their home crowd.

For Elfsborg, this represents a chance to create history, but the odds are stacked against them. Fans can expect an entertaining clash with high stakes, where Tottenham’s quality is likely to shine through.

For more info on this game, you may also visit:

Tottenham vs Elfsborg | UEFA Europa League 2024/25