A match in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League group stage is set for Tuesday at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, where Tottenham will take on Villarreal from Spain. There are strong odds for a high-scoring game in this matchup.
Match preview
Tottenham returns to the Champions League after a two-year break, achieving this by winning the Europa League. Despite a poor run in the Premier League, finishing 17th, they are back competing in Europe’s top tournament. Their Europa League final against Manchester United highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
However, Tottenham’s recent form in the Champions League is concerning, with only three wins in their last eleven matches. Key injuries to Maddison, Kulusevski, and Bissouma limit their options, but new players Kudus and Simons may provide creativity. Spurs tend to score at home, which could be crucial in this opening match.
Villarreal also returns to the Champions League after a three-year absence, thanks to their La Liga performance. Their domestic form has been more consistent than Tottenham’s, and they boast a solid track record in Europe. Just three seasons ago, they reached the Champions League semi-finals, showcasing their capability in this competition.
The strength of Villarreal lies in their effective attacking play. They have scored in five of their last six away matches in the Champions League and usually do not go behind at halftime. Although losing Gerard Moreno and Cabanes affects their squad depth, forwards Pepe and Buchanan keep their attack strong.
Probable lineups
- Tottenham: Vicario, Spence, Romero, van de Ven, Porro, Palhinha, Bentancur, Kudus, Sarr, Simons, Richarlison
- Villarreal: Junior, Marin, Cardona, Mourinho, Foyth, Moleiro, Comesaña, Guye, Etta Eyong, Pepe, Buchanan
Match facts and head-to-head
- Tottenham have scored in 16 of their last 19 home Champions League matches.
- Villarreal have netted in 5 of their last 6 away games in the competition.
- This will be the first official meeting between these teams.
Prediction
Both teams favor an attacking style, and their European statistics back this up. Tottenham generally finds a way to score at home, while Villarreal remains a threat on the road. With defensive absences on both sides, this match is likely to see goals from both teams.