Tottenham Set Sights on Europa League Resurgence Against Hoffenheim

Tottenham Hotspur will momentarily shift their focus from their inconsistent Premier League campaign to the continental stage as they face Hoffenheim in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday. Currently languishing in ninth place domestically, Spurs remain within striking distance of a top-eight finish by the end of the league phase next week.

Meanwhile, hosts Hoffenheim find themselves in 27th position in the Bundesliga but are just a point adrift of the top 24 and a potential knockout spot.

Tottenham Seeking Redemption in Europe

Tottenham are reeling from yet another disappointing defeat over the weekend, having succumbed 3-2 to Everton after trailing 3-0 at halftime. The team’s injury crisis continues to cast a shadow over their performances, with 12 first-team players unavailable for the upcoming clash in Germany. The latest addition to the injury list is Pape Sarr, although Rodrigo Bentancur is expected to return after missing the last few weeks due to a concussion.

Despite their struggles domestically, Tottenham remain in contention in all cup competitions. They have already progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup, hold an advantage in the EFL Cup semifinals, and are only out of the Europa League top eight on goal difference.

Hoffenheim’s Goal Struggles Favor Tottenham

Considering Hoffenheim’s position of 16th in the Bundesliga and 27th in the Europa League, this match represents a crucial opportunity for Tottenham to inject some optimism into a challenging season.

Hoffenheim’s well-documented struggles in front of goal could play into the hands of the visitors. If Tottenham can maintain a solid defensive performance, they have a strong chance of securing a straightforward victory and maintaining their strong standing in European play.

Predicted Lineup

Kinsky, Porro, Dragusin, Davies, Spence, Bentancur, Gray, Bergvall, Maddison, Kulusevski, Son

Prediction

Even though clean sheets have been hard to come by for Spurs this season, Hoffenheim’s goal-scoring woes are expected to favor the visitors. Tottenham have the potential to collect a comfortable win and keep themselves in the hunt for European success.

Pick: Hoffenheim 0, Tottenham Hotspur 2