How Tottenham Hotspur can upend Manchester City
By Gary Pearson
Tottenham travel to the Etihad to play league leaders Manchester City, whom most expect will eventually be crowned as 2020-21 Premier League champions.
City have, for almost two months, swatted away all comers, winning 10 on the trot in comprehensive fashion. During their remarkable winning run, City have outscored their opponents by an outlandish 25-2. It’s a run that includes eight clean sheets, six of them in a row prior to conceding one against the Reds last week.
That adds a bit of context regarding the challenge lying in wait for Spurs, who ended a three-match losing streak in last weekend’s 2-0 win over struggling West Brom. The win against the Baggies by no means cures the Lilywhites’ current ailments, but can be used as a potential springboard.
Spurs have to be at their best
At their best, Spurs are capable of beating anyone. Though, based on the last month or so, it’s unrealistic to expect Jose Mourinho’s side to play their full potential. Considering the opposing paths these two sides are on, expect the away side to play a tight, organized and cagey defensive shell, waiting for any scraps City uncharacteristically allot.
Executing an unblemished, mistake-free game plan is one of numerous crucial elements if Spurs have any chance of upending Europe’s in-form team. Any personal blunders, which have defined Tottenham’s recent tumult, will be punished to the full extent of the law.
City will undoubtedly dominate possession, so it’s up to Spurs to make the most of any opportunity that comes their way.
Along with abolishing hair-brained mishaps, Tottenham’s highly acclaimed counter attack will need to be at its most opportunistic.