Germany legend Lothar Matthaus predicts we will draw with Real Madrid in Champions League clash tonight.
Matthaus, writing for The Sun, said Tottenham played very well in Madrid surprising him as he didn’t think we had that level of quality.
Matthaus believes Madrid’s shaky start to the season could be a consequence of their success that “when you win a lot you can lose some of that motivation.”
On watching Spurs now the German legend says: “When I watch Spurs now they do seem more comfortable at Wembley than last season. That is important for their hopes in both the Champions Leagueand the Premier League.
The first game suggested there is no big difference between the sides and this is where Spurs can prove it.”
Matthaus reckons Madrid will have been hurt by losing in Girona at the weekend and that they lost because Girona simply did not let them settle in possession and it has to be the same for Spurs.
Matthaus said: “So you have to be aggressive, disturb their passing game and make them play it earlier than they want”
He continued: “Toni Kroos and Luka Modric are the creative hub and, if you give them time and space, they will kill you.
For me, that means you can’t defend from the edge of your own box”
Matthaus believe It’s vital Pochettino’s men put Madrid under pressure early and don’t give them the opportunities to play those passes into Ronaldo, Benzema and Isco otherwise it becomes a real problem for us. Spurs must not let them dominate midfield.
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Dele Alli returns to the fold tonight and Matthaus says he doesn’t have to show him or anyone else anything — because he has already proved his quality.
Matthaus added however :”The last thing he needs is to be more wound-up to play.He must control himself and let his natural game come through.We all know what he can do. He can score and assist against the best teams. He’s such an important player, for both Tottenham and England”
The Harry Kane rumours continue to persist and Matthaus reckons there is no question Real Madrid are looking at our goal hero to replace Karim Benzema.
Matthaus added: “In the past 18 months, Kane has become a striker everyone is talking about. In the next few years, the big European teams will be trying to sign him.
For now, it’s clear he is very happy at Tottenham. But there is so much talk, so much that will be offered.
Now he is not thinking of any of that. His focus is Spurs but if something serious does happen in terms of a huge bid, it might be hard for him to turn that down”
Matthaus concludes that a draw is the result that would suit both teams and the two coaches will know that. He added :”So 1-1 will suit both teams. It is the smart play and these are two smart teams, with two smart coaches”.
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