Three Reasons Tottenham Hotspur need to beat Paços de Ferreira
By Aaron Coe
While no one is thrilled about being in Europe’s third-tier competition, the reality is, Tottenham Hotspur really needs to beat Paços and advance in the Conference League.
Just a few summers ago, Tottenham Hotspur was in the Champions League final now they are about to play for their European lives to qualify for UEFA’s third-tier competition. Clearly, the Conference League is not where the club, the players, or the fans want the team playing. However, after last season’s implosion, it is all the Spurs have. And while some fans may want the club to just ignore the competition the reality is Tottenham Hotspur needs to beat Paços de Ferreira and at least reach the group stage of the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Some Europe is better than none
The Conference League is not helping any with recruiting this season, however, participating in European competition is better than not. The idea that the Spurs are not even competing in Europe at all is almost inconceivable given the overall participation over the last decade.
With other Premier League teams like Leicester City and West Ham playing in Europa League for certain, the idea that Spurs are doing nothing is just not acceptable.
Even more significant than participating in European competition are the coefficient points that come with it. Simply reaching the Group Stage guarantees Tottenham 12 coefficient points for the year, which is significant for the club and frankly the league. If you do not think coefficient points are significant for a league, ask France how it feels to be the number six league in Europe.
No, the Conference League is not prestigious but it is more European football, which is something we all crave, just like the proceeds that come with it.