Spurs kept up their unbeaten record in the Premier League with a 1-1 draw against West Brom on Saturday but the Lilywhites did not seem to be at their usual best. Dele Alli struck very late to cancel out former Spurs midfielder Nacer Chadli’s strike for the Baggies. Spurs have an extremely tough game on their hands next when they travel to BayArena on Tuesday to take on a strong Bayer Leverkusen side who have a very similar blueprint to their style of play.
This Group E encounter can prove to be an exciting one as this group promises to be one of the most closely contested groups this time around. Monaco are leading the group with four points while Spurs sit second with three. Leverkusen have acquired two points so far while bottom-placed CSKA Moscow also have one point to their name. Here are three key battles those could decide the outcome of the game-
Jonathan Tah Vs Heung Min-Son
Former Leverkusen star Son-Heung Min will return to face his former club and is likely to spearhead the attack of the Lilywhites in this crucial game. The South Korean has been in brilliant form this season having scored five goals and setting up two goals in all competitions. However, the Premier League Player of the Month for the month of September will have a tough battle against Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah. The 20-year-old is one of the best young defenders in the continent and boats both pace and strength to deal with the threat Son poses.
Kevin Kampl Vs Dele Alli
Slovenian international Kevin Kampl holds the key to success for Bayer Leverkusen with his all-round midfield ability. He makes them tick from the central midfield position and is a player who will constantly press the Spurs midfield. Dele Alli, Spurs’ number ten, will face a tricky battle against the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder and the winner of this battle can very well determine the outcome of the game.
Alli has been impressive of late after starting the season pretty much on an average note but Kampl is someone who can bring him back to earth.
Javier Hernandez Vs Jan Vertonghen
Seven goals from nine games in all competitions- Chicharito has been in golden touch in front of the goal this season for Roger Schmidt’s side. The Mexican international knows Spurs very well from his time at Manchester United and will be looking to cause damage to them with his exception eye for goals. With his partner Toby Alderweireld out with injury, Jan Vertonghen will have a serious trouble to deal with the threat posed by Hernandez.
