Analyzing Tottenham’s chances of winning the FA Cup

Can Tottenham win the FA Cup?

The short and simple answer is absolutely. With a relatively more comfortable draw in the fifth round at home to Norwich, the odds of Spurs advancing to the quarterfinal are favourable.

Mourinho’s side might be able to squirm their way into the quarterfinal with another inconsistent, unconvincing display. But subpar performances beyond the fifth round will lead to the Lilywhites’ demise.

But regardless of the opponent, Mourinho knows precisely how to grind out results. His team will have to show more intent and purpose if they are to end a 12-year trophy dry patch.

There is more good news though: Either Chelsea or Liverpool, with the two sides facing each other, will be ousted in the fifth round. Manchester United face a potential banana skin as they travel to Championship side Derby, but one would expect Ole’s side to handle their business.

That still leaves Manchester City and Arsenal, both of whom will advance to the quarterfinal. If all goes according to plan, Spurs, City, Arsenal, United and either Chelsea or Liverpool, along with Leicester, will all be part of the quarterfinal draw. That would be one of the strongest quarterfinal draws in recent memory.

One has to consider the Mourinho factor in evaluating Tottenham’s chances. While the performances haven’t dazzled, his side is still in the competition. And frankly that’s all that matters, particularly with the litany of injuries his club has faced. He knows how to win this competition, as he has proven repeatedly.

Beating a team in a one-off is his specialty. And considering Tottenham haven’t played to their potential in the competition yet will be particularly foreboding for the opposition. Very rarely does a side of Spurs’ calibre continuously play so-so without enjoying a wondrous match or two.

With those thoughts in mind, Tottenham are poised nicely to end their 12-year barren patch. While there’s a lot of football to be played, Spurs, if they are able increase substantially their level, have as good a chance as any to lift this season’s FA Cup.

If all falls into place, the Mourinho factor will have a chance to work its magic in the latter rounds and take Spurs to an unfamiliar, yet glorious place.