Tactical Setup – Tottenham Hotspur in the North London Derby
Alright lads, it’s that time again – the North London Derby at our very own Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This Sunday, we go head-to-head with Arsenal, and under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance, we’re looking like a force to be reckoned with. Let’s break down how we could set up for this colossal clash, keeping our strengths at the forefront while nullifying the Gunners’ threats.
We’re sticking with our trusty 4-2-3-1 formation, a system that’s served us well and keeps us solid yet flexible. At the heart of the defence, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven form a rock-solid partnership. Romero, our defensive lynchpin, needs to lead by example. His no-nonsense approach and sharp reading of the game will be crucial in shutting down Arsenal’s attackers. Micky van de Ven, with his speed and strength, is the perfect partner, and together, they’ll need to be at their best.
On the flanks, we’ve got Pedro Porro on the right and Destiny Udogie on the left. These two love to push forward and provide width, but against Arsenal, they’ll need to be disciplined. Udogie, in particular, has a big job on his hands dealing with Bukayo Saka. He’ll need to be sharp and focused to keep Saka quiet.
Between the sticks, Guglielmo Vicario has to step up. Vicario’s shown flashes of brilliance, but he needs to be commanding, especially on set pieces. Arsenal are dangerous from dead-ball situations, so the Italian international has to own his area and give his defenders confidence.
The Engine Room
In midfield, Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr will be our engine room. Arsenal love to dominate possession, but without Declan Rice, they’re a bit weakened. Bissouma, with his tireless running and ability to break up play, will be crucial. He needs to be everywhere, cutting out passes and launching our counters. Sarr, with his box-to-box energy, will be just as important, pressing high and tracking back to help defensively.
Playing just ahead of them in the number 10 role is James Maddison. Madders has been a revelation since joining us, and his creativity is second to none. He needs to find those pockets of space between Arsenal’s midfield and defence, threading through balls and maybe taking a few shots himself. His set-piece delivery could also be the key to unlocking Arsenal’s defence.
Up front, Dominic Solanke is expected to lead the line. Solanke’s physical presence and ability to hold up the ball will be crucial in bringing his teammates into play. He’ll be supported on the wings by captain Heung-min Son on the left and Dejan Kulusevski on the right. Son, with two goals in three appearances this season, remains one of Spurs’ most lethal finishers. His pace, movement, and ability to cut inside will pose a significant threat to Arsenal’s backline. Against William Saliba and Gabriel, Son’s experience and clinical finishing will be key to making the most of any opportunities that come his way.
Kulusevski, on the other flank, adds a different dimension with his dribbling and ability to create chances. His work rate and willingness to track back will also be important in helping Porro manage the defensive duties. Starting Wilson Odobert, as done previously, might not be the best decision given the magnitude of the occasion. Odobert, though talented, may find the derby atmosphere overwhelming, and Kulusevski’s experience makes him a safer bet.
Recent Form and H2H
We’re coming off a tough loss against Newcastle, but that’s in the past. We’ve shown resilience and quality this season. Arsenal, on the other hand, are coming off a frustrating draw against Brighton. This could play to our advantage, as they might be a bit rattled. The contrasting recent form could play a crucial role, with Spurs looking to regain lost momentum.
The North London Derby is always a cracker, and the history between us adds to the spice. Last season at our place, we lost narrowly 2-3, with goals from Son and Romero giving us hope. This time, we need to turn that hope into a result. The memories of past encounters will fuel the fire on Sunday.
Speaking of a Key Battle, Udogie vs Saka will be a crucial one. Udogie needs to be on his game to keep Saka in check. In midfield, Bissouma and Sarr will need to outwork Arsenal’s midfield, especially in Rice’s absence. Up front, Solanke’s physical presence against Saliba and Gabriel could be decisive.
Big Ange’s attacking philosophy and high pressing will aim to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm. Arteta will look to control the game and exploit any lapses in our defence. The tactical battle between the managers could be the deciding factor. However, these things oftentimes take the backseat in derbies.
FANS!
The psychological aspect of the derby is massive. The pressure on players and managers is immense. Tottenham staying composed and focused, especially under Arsenal’s pressure, is crucial. Handling the mental side of the game is just as important as the physical and tactical elements.
Our fans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will play a massive role. The NLD is as much about passion as it is about tactics. The home crowd can create a hostile environment, making it tough for Arsenal to settle. Our fans and their energy can be the extra man on the pitch, driving the players to give that little bit more.
By leveraging the strengths of our key players, and capitalising on Arsenal’s weaknesses, especially in the absence of Declan Rice, we can edge out our rivals.
A win would make it so sweet; imagine the bragging rights; imagine the rattle in the red half of North London. It’s about showing that we’re not just here to compete but to challenge at the highest level. Here’s hoping for a memorable victory, one for the ages. Come on you Spurs!!!!
