Tottenham and AC Milan will face off in North London this Wednesday for the second leg of their Champions League knockout tie.
Tottenham lost 1-0 in the first leg at the San Siro, with an early goal by Brahim Díaz the difference on the night. But, unfortunately, it was by the same scoreline that the hosts fell to defeat in Premier League action at the weekend, too, going down against relegation-battling Wolves.
The latest result has put their chances of finishing in the Premier League top four in jeopardy, with perennial top four chasers Liverpool just three points behind with a game in hand.
Read more: Tottenham vs AC Milan: Preview and Expert Football Prediction
So, though highly unlikely, winning this competition is becoming increasingly for Spurs, who are seeking to overturn a first-leg deficit for the third time in four such instances in European competition. The return of manager Antonio Conte to the dugout after a brief spell on the sidelines could be the best omen of all for Tottenham, given the Italian boss has won five of his last six managerial home games against Milan in all competitions.
Like their hosts, AC Milan suffered a similarly poor domestic result at the weekend, going down 2-1 against Fiorentina. As a result, they have lost ground in the race for second in Serie A, with their away form much to blame for their failed title defence this season.
Things could worsen in North London as the visitors have a poor record against Premier League teams. The San Siro side have five defeats from their last six two-legged knockout ties against English opposition. Stefano Pioli’s men have also lost by an aggregate 9-1 score on their previous three visits to the English capital in European competition.
So, they must do better than their previous visits to England to secure their first UCL quarter-final appearance in 11 years. But, with 37 wins out of 43 UEFA competition ties in which they won the first leg at home, Pioli’s side should have some belief.
Click here to get the correct score tomorrow.
