Tottenham vs Villarreal — Champions League Preview (16 Sept 2025)
Kick-off: 21:00 CET
Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26, Matchday 1
Match Context
Tottenham Hotspur return to the Champions League group stage with a home tie against Villarreal, the “Yellow Submarine” from Spain.
Spurs are looking strong under their current system, with James Maddison orchestrating play and Richarlison leading the line. Villarreal, despite a shaky La Liga start, remain a dangerous European side — they famously reached the 2022 semi-finals of this competition (UEFA).
This clash promises tactical intrigue: Spurs’ fast tempo and direct attack against Villarreal’s structured midfield and counter-attack style.
SEO Keywords: Tottenham vs Villarreal preview, Spurs Champions League lineup, Villarreal predicted XI, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium UCL, Tottenham vs Villarreal prediction
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Tottenham (4-2-3-1)
-
GK: Guglielmo Vicario
-
RB: Pedro Porro
-
CB: Cristian Romero
-
CB: Micky van de Ven
-
LB: Destiny Udogie
-
CM: Yves Bissouma
-
CM: Pape Matar Sarr
-
RW: Dejan Kulusevski
-
AM: James Maddison
-
LW: Brennan Johnson
-
ST: Richarlison
Key Notes:
-
Maddison is central to Spurs’ creativity.
-
Richarlison leads the attack after solid domestic form.
-
Strong defensive base with Romero–Van de Ven partnership.
Villarreal (4-3-3)
-
GK: Filip Jörgensen
-
RB: Juan Foyth
-
CB: Jorge Cuenca
-
CB: Eric Bailly
-
LB: Alberto Moreno
-
CM: Dani Parejo
-
CM: Étienne Capoue
-
CM: Álex Baena
-
RW: Gerard Moreno
-
LW: Yeremy Pino
-
ST: Alexander Sørloth
Key Notes:
-
Parejo controls tempo, key for midfield balance.
-
Gerard Moreno and Pino bring pace and creativity out wide.
-
Sørloth offers aerial threat and physical presence.
Tactical Analysis
-
Tottenham’s Approach:
Ange Postecoglou’s side play a high press, vertical passing, and wide attacking with Porro and Udogie pushing high. Maddison the creative hub, linking with Richarlison. -
Villarreal’s Approach:
Compact midfield led by Parejo, relying on Pino’s pace and Gerard Moreno’s finishing. Sørloth provides hold-up play for transitions. -
Key Battle: Maddison vs Parejo — midfield control will dictate the rhythm of the game.
Key Players to Watch
-
Tottenham: James Maddison — playmaker in top form, vital for unlocking defences.
-
Tottenham: Richarlison — physical forward, capable of exploiting Villarreal’s shaky defence.
-
Villarreal: Gerard Moreno — experienced forward, dangerous inside the box.
-
Villarreal: Dani Parejo — veteran midfielder, crucial in maintaining possession.
Sources: