Tottenham Hotspur return to Champions League action looking to extend their solid start in Europe. After a 2–0 win over Villarreal and a 2–2 draw with Bodo/Glimt, Thomas Frank’s side sit comfortably near the top of their league-phase section with four points from six.
Their European form contrasts with domestic inconsistency — Spurs have won just one of their last four games in all competitions, including a 2–1 home loss to Aston Villa over the weekend. However, they remain unbeaten away from home this season, which bodes well ahead of the trip to Monaco.
Defensive injuries could complicate things for the visitors, with Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie joining a long list of absentees. Nevertheless, the attacking trio of Richarlison, Simons, and Johnson is expected to cause problems for any back line.
Monaco start a new era under Pocognoli
Monaco, meanwhile, enter this clash in transition after parting ways with Adi Hütter. New boss Sébastien Pocognoli began his reign with a 1–1 draw against Angers, extending the club’s streak of three consecutive draws.
The French outfit showed resilience last time in Europe, holding Manchester City to a 2–2 draw, but remain without a clean sheet all season. In attack, Folarin Balogun could start after scoring off the bench at the weekend, supported by Ansu Fati and Maghnes Akliouche.
Prediction
Both teams have clear attacking quality but fragile defences, and recent form suggests plenty of action at both ends.
Prediction: Monaco 2–2 Tottenham Hotspur
Tip: BTTS
