Tottenham’s Trophy Drought and Injury Crisis
Tottenham's trophy drought extends back to their 2007/08 League Cup win, and they have yet to capture a major trophy in the 17 years since. Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou has promised to deliver silverware within two years at the club, but the task looks daunting given their current form and injury crisis. Spurs have gone four matches without a win (D1, L3), and a string of key injuries has left them vulnerable.
Spurs have been severely impacted by injuries and illnesses, with many senior players unavailable. The defence, in particular, has been a significant concern, as the team has struggled to maintain a solid backline. The situation has prompted the club to move quickly in the January transfer window, with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky joining the ranks. Kinsky could make his debut in the semi-final and potentially help Spurs improve on their worrying record of just one clean sheet in their last 11 competitive games.
Liverpool’s Strong Position and Away Dominance
Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, are on a quest to defend their EFL Cup title won by Jurgen Klopp last season. The Reds are in excellent form this season, and despite a 2-2 draw against Manchester United on the weekend, they remain top of the Premier League and are on a ten-game unbeaten run in the League Cup. The club's potent attack has been a key factor, scoring an average of more than three goals per game in this competition. Liverpool's away form has been especially impressive, with the team unbeaten in all competitive matches since April (W12, D4), a stat that will give them confidence ahead of this trip to North London.
While Liverpool has been conceding goals, they have shown resilience in their quest to secure another League Cup victory. The team's attacking prowess, with players like Cody Gakpo leading the charge, will likely pose a significant threat to Spurs' leaky defence. Gakpo has been in scintillating form this season, scoring four goals and providing one assist in the League Cup, and could extend his scoring streak in this fixture.
Tottenham’s Defensive Woes and Key Absentees
Tottenham’s recent performances have been marked by poor defensive displays, exemplified by their 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United over the weekend. Spurs have struggled to keep clean sheets, and with a depleted defensive unit, this trend is unlikely to change for the semi-final. The team is missing several key defenders, including Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Ben Davies, and Destiny Udogie, all sidelined with injuries. In goal, Spurs were also without backup Fraser Forster due to illness. With the injury crisis mounting, Postecoglou’s tactical options are severely limited, and the manager will need to rely on his remaining fit players to hold off Liverpool’s powerful attack.
Despite these issues, Spurs have some positive news with the return of midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur, who will be available again after suspension. However, they will still be without the services of Richarlison, Mikey Moore, and Wilson Odobert, who are all sidelined with injuries and illness.
Liverpool’s Strengths and Players to Watch
Liverpool will approach this match as strong favourites, given their recent form and Spurs' ongoing struggles. Arne Slot may opt to field a slightly stronger lineup for this fixture, having no Premier League matches until the following week. Dominik Szoboszlai, who has been recovering from illness, could feature, and Joe Gomez remains the only major injury concern for Liverpool with a hamstring issue.
Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, both key players for Liverpool, have been rested throughout the League Cup campaign so far and could be given another break in this match, providing opportunities for younger players like Jarell Quansah and Harvey Elliott to step up. Conor Bradley, who has recently returned from injury, could start in place of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had a tough outing against Manchester United.
What to Expect from the Semi-Final
This EFL Cup semi-final promises to be a fascinating contest, with Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities going up against Liverpool’s attacking firepower. Spurs’ injury woes will make it difficult for them to keep Liverpool at bay, but Postecoglou’s men will be eager to bounce back and put in a strong performance in front of their home fans. A win could provide much-needed confidence ahead of the North London derby next week, and Spurs will hope to capitalize on any lapses in Liverpool’s defence.
For Liverpool, the goal is clear: defend their League Cup title and secure a place in the final. With their strong away record and formidable attacking players, the Reds will look to take control of the tie in the first leg. If Tottenham’s defence cannot cope with Liverpool’s offensive threat, it could be a difficult night for the home team.
Conclusion
Tottenham's injury crisis and defensive issues make them the underdogs in this semi-final, while Liverpool’s impressive form and depth give them a distinct advantage. However, with both teams fighting for a place in the final, this promises to be an exciting and closely contested match. Spurs will need to dig deep and put in a resilient performance if they hope to keep their hopes of silverware alive.
