Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
A shortage of players due to a spate of injuries immediately affected Tottenham Hotspur’s results. Thomas Frank must respond correctly to the weekend defeat against Chelsea (0:1) — a home match against Copenhagen should bring straightforward points.
Tottenham Hotspur
Bookmakers might have shortened the odds on a Tottenham Hotspur win even further if they did not have so many unavailable players. Out for the hosts are Lucas Bergvall, Yves Bissouma, Ben Davies, Archie Gray, Dominic Solanke and Mathys Tel, not to mention the long-term absentees (Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Drăgușin and James Maddison). Before the defeats to Newcastle United in the EFL Cup (0:2) and Chelsea in the Premier League (0:1), Tottenham Hotspur dealt confidently with Everton (3:0), producing 1.72 xG with four big chances in Liverpool. In the Champions League, Tottenham Hotspur have not yet lost, but the away draw at FK Bodø/Glimt (2:2) suggests inconsistency in this competition.
FC Copenhagen
By the third round of the overall stage of the UEFA Champions League, Copenhagen had conceded eight goals — only six teams in the tournament have a weaker defence. Since late September, they have kept a clean sheet only once in eight matches in all competitions. Two weeks ago against Borussia Dortmund (2:4), Copenhagen allowed 1.65 xGA, rarely controlling the ball (36-64 in possession) — in London they will also cede the initiative to Tottenham Hotspur.
Tottenham Hotspur vs FC Copenhagen Prediction
The pace on the flanks from Wilson Odobert and Brennan Johnson will create chances in the penalty area. Tottenham Hotspur are forced to open up, so Copenhagen will also have opportunities at the hosts’ goal — we are backing the over 2.5 goals.
