Tottenham Hotspur face AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of the Europa League last 16 on Thursday, with the match taking place away from home. This encounter is being touted as the biggest game of Ange Postecoglou's managerial career, according to former Spurs player Jamie O'Hara. With Tottenham's Premier League hopes dashed, all focus shifts to the European competition, where they hold a significant chance of success.
Jamie O'Hara emphasized the importance of this match, stating:
"AZ Alkmaar is the biggest game of Ange Postecoglou's career." – Jamie O'Hara
The anticipation builds as Tottenham are seen as second favourites to lift the Europa League trophy, with betting odds placing their chances at 14.5%. Lazio are considered the frontrunners with a 17.2% probability. Despite this, both Sky Sports' Paul Merson and the Opta supercomputer agree that Spurs have a 69% chance of progressing to the quarter-finals.
O'Hara further elaborated on Tottenham's current situation:
"Ange Postecoglou rested players and I've heard people moaning about it – the Premier League is gone for Tottenham. It's over. This season's done." – Jamie O'Hara
With eight days to prepare, Tottenham are keen to capitalize on this opportunity. AZ Alkmaar, however, are formidable opponents, having lost only once at home in all competitions since December. Tottenham narrowly defeated AZ 1-0 in a previous league stage encounter in October, a result that adds an extra layer of intrigue to this rematch.
Paul Merson shared his observations about AZ Alkmaar's recent form:
"I watched them the other week at Galatasaray in the second leg – they were electric up front." – Paul Merson
AZ's offensive prowess was on full display as they knocked out Galatasaray with a 6-3 aggregate win in the play-off round. Merson highlighted their performance:
"They blew Galatasaray away and Galatasaray were fortunate to get a 2-2 draw in the second leg." – Paul Merson
The challenge for Tottenham is clear. As Merson noted, playing at AZ's ground poses its own set of difficulties:
"I don't know how Tottenham will live with them at their ground because it's a big old pitch." – Paul Merson
Nevertheless, Tottenham's focus remains unwavering. O'Hara reiterated the importance of having key players ready for this crucial fixture:
"He wants his best players fit, fresh and ready to go. That's all his whole focus is." – Jamie O'Hara
Tottenham's strategy is straightforward; winning the Europa League is now their primary goal. O'Hara commented on the implications of such a victory:
"If Tottenham win this and get in the Champions League, they've had their best season ever." – Paul Merson
The stakes are high as Tottenham aim to salvage their season and secure European glory. Despite the challenges in domestic competitions, a triumph in Europe could redefine their campaign as a historic success.
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