UEFA Champions League Matchday 2 Preview, Group A: September 29, 2010

Tottenham vs Twente

Tottenham are a little short of defensive options, in fact they only have one recognised centre back in the form of Bassong for their match against FC Twente. This is not something which any team wants to deal with in the Champions League.

Gallas, King, Dawson, and Kaboul are all sidelined with injury. Corluka could play in the centre back position and Gomes could be returning after being out with an injury for over a month.

Tottenham will also be without Defoe, who, you’ve guessed it, is also out with injury. Despite all this Redknapp has suggested that his side will be playing an attacking game so as to solidify his teams first win in the Champions League. The home advantage should be taken into consideration, but with all these players out injured it could be anybodies game.

Both Twente and Tottenham drew in their opening games, although Twente’s was a far more respectable point taking it from reigning champions Inter Milan where as Tottenham’s sloppy defending cost them the lead against Werder Bremen.

This match could be crucial in deciding who makes it through the group stages and Twente will know that, a win here and against Bremen could set them up nicely to make it through the group stages.


Inter Milan vs Werder Bremen

Benitez is looking for his first Champions League win since he took over Inter Milan—they drew there first match against FC Twente which isn’t so much of a testament to Milan’s poor performance—FC Twente did play beyond themselves. Inter do have the advantage of playing against a side which doesn’t play pragmatic football so this should go in their favour.

As a result of this then Inter may have an opportunity to pick holes in their defence which isn’t exactly the focal point of Bremen’s game. This is a good opportunity for the Italians to get themselves back on track, although a slip up here could have major ramifications.

Werder Bremen are a good side going forward, that is not under question. The only doubt is whether or not a good attack will be enough to break down Milan’s fantastic defensive line up. The problem with Bremen’s style of football is that in going forward they can often leave themselves over exposed. If they can tighten up quick enough when Inter counter attack then they could have a half decent chance of winning.

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