Manchester United will be facing off against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup Semi-Final stage on Saturday evening. The stands at Wembley will be buzzing with excitement to see England’s two of the best four clubs go head to head in one of the most prestigious domestic tournaments.
This is the best and only opportunity to collect silverware for both teams this season and a tactical battle is expected to ensue between two ambitious coaches.
United triumphed over Brighton And Hove Albion in the previous round by 2-0 and the Spurs delved out a 3-goal beating to Swansea City. Christian Eriksen got a brace for the North London side while Erik Lamela scored the winner with a clever nutmegged shot. The Red Devils made amends from the 0-1 defeat against West Brom at home by beating Bournemouth 0-2 at the Vitality on Wednesday. Romelu Lukaku and Chris Smalling were the difference makers as Jose Mourinho rested his key players in anticipation of this tie alone.
Tottenham, on the other hand, drew 1-1 to a relegation concerned Brighton And Hove Albion side right after the 1-3 thrashing from Manchester City at Wembley.
Mauricio Pochettino’s men were vehemently beaten by the league leaders and will be charged to exact some sort of revenge in this tie. United prolonged the coronation period by beating City 2-3 at the Etihad but subsequently handed over the trophy by losing to Albion at the Old Trafford.
The dramatic end of the season is upon us and Saturday promises to deliver some more.
It would be fair to assume that nothing less than a win is acceptable for both sides at this point of the campaign.
While Mourinho will be tinkering with his defensive setup Pochettino might just come in full guns blazing.
Here is how Tottenham Hotspur might lineup on matchday.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Hugo Lloris should get the nod for the goalkeeping position ahead of Kevin Vorm. The Frenchman might get shielded by the defensive quartet of Ben Davies, Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld and Kevin Trippier. Danny Rose’s return is anticipated but not to the starting lineup.
Midfield
Eric Dier and Moussa Dembele are predicted starters in the holding midfield role with Heung-min son, Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli in front of them.
Erik Lamela can make a substitute appearance should the occasion arise.
Attack
Harry Kane is set to take up the sole responsibility upfront for the North London club and resume his scoring duties.
