Hearts vs Tottenham predictions for this pre-season friendly. Tottenham visit Hearts at Tynecastle Park for a pre-season friendly on Wednesday after a high-scoring behind-closed-doors match. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies | Jul 17, 2024 at 7pm UK at Tynecastle Park
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Hearts vs Tottenham Predictions
Can Hearts Hold Off Tottenham’s Attack at Tynecastle Park?
Key Stats
– Tottenham have an average of 15.4 shots per game, indicating their attacking intent.
– Hearts have conceded an average of 1.1 goals per game, highlighting their defensive frailties.
– Heung-min Son scored 17 goals last season, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.
Following an impressive behind-closed-doors victory, Tottenham Hotspur will travel to Tynecastle Park to face Hearts in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday. Ange Postecoglou’s side had a fruitful outing against Cambridge United recently, while Hearts suffered a narrow defeat to Leyton Orient. This match serves as a significant preparatory step for both teams as they gear up for their respective domestic seasons.
Match Preview
Tottenham’s last match against Cambridge United saw them secure a 7-0 victory, showcasing their attacking prowess. Postecoglou’s post-match comments were fiery, hinting at a season of high expectations and intense competition. Spurs failed to secure a Champions League spot last season, but they are set to compete in the Europa League, which remains a significant challenge. The pre-season fixtures, including this game against Hearts, are crucial for building momentum and integrating new strategies.
Hearts, meanwhile, are also looking to make an impact. Finishing third in the Scottish Premiership last season, they have qualified for the Europa League play-off round. However, their preparation has hit a snag with a 2-1 loss to Leyton Orient. Steven Naismith, in his first full season as head coach, will aim to correct the course and get his team ready for the challenges ahead.
Team News and Lineups
Hearts
Hearts will be without several key players due to international duties and injuries. Lawrence Shankland and Zander Clark are notable absentees, alongside Costa Rica’s Gerald Taylor and Kenneth Vargas. Injuries also sideline Beni Baningime, Stephen Kingsley, Finlay Pollock, and Calem Nieuwenhof. Alex Cochrane is on the verge of a transfer, and James Penrice may not be risked due to a hip issue. The likely lineup includes Gordon in goal, Oyegoke, Halkett, Kent, and Rowles in defence, with Spittal, Tait, Denholm, and McKay in midfield, and Forrest and Tagawa up front.
Tottenham
Spurs also have several high-profile absentees. Cristian Romero and Giovani Lo Celso are resting post-Copa America, while Guglielmo Vicario, Micky van de Ven, Radu Dragusin, and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg are taking a break after Euro 2024. Rodrigo Bentancur is unavailable, and injuries rule out Fraser Forster, Ben Davies, and Destiny Udogie. Djed Spence and Sergio Reguilon are not in Postecoglou’s plans. Expected starters include Austin in goal, Porro, Phillips, Royal, and Donley in defence, with Bissouma and Skipp in midfield, and Kulusevski, Maddison, and Johnson supporting Son in attack.
Tactical Analysis and Key Duels
Midfield Battle
The midfield will be a crucial battleground, with Hearts’ Tait and Denholm going up against Tottenham’s Bissouma and Skipp. Bissouma’s ability to break up play and Skipp’s vision will be vital for Spurs, while Tait’s creativity and Denholm’s energy will be essential for Hearts.
Defence vs Attack
In defence, Hearts will rely on Halkett and Kent to contain Tottenham’s potent attack, led by Son and supported by Maddison and Kulusevski. The defensive pairing will need to be at their best to withstand the pressure from Spurs’ front line. Meanwhile, Hearts’ forward line, featuring Forrest and Tagawa, will aim to exploit any gaps in Tottenham’s defence, where Phillips and Royal will need to be vigilant.
Expected Gameplay and Dynamics
Tottenham are likely to dominate possession and push Hearts onto the back foot with their high-tempo, attacking style. Postecoglou’s side will aim to exploit the wings, with Porro and Kulusevski providing width and crosses into the box. Set-pieces will also be a significant aspect of their game plan, given their proficiency in these situations.
Hearts, conversely, may adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on maintaining a solid defensive structure and hitting Spurs on the counter. With their key players missing, Naismith’s side will need to be disciplined and organised to withstand Tottenham’s onslaught.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Hearts
Strengths: Hearts’ primary strength lies in their collective organisation and resilience. Under Naismith, they have developed a cohesive unit that can frustrate opponents and capitalise on set-pieces.
Weaknesses: The absence of key players due to international duties and injuries severely weakens their squad. Their defensive frailties were exposed in the loss to Leyton Orient, and they will need to address these issues quickly.
Tottenham
Strengths: Tottenham’s attacking depth and recent form are significant advantages. With players like Son and Kulusevski, they have the firepower to break down defences. Their high possession stats and ability to create numerous chances make them a formidable side.
Weaknesses: Defensive vulnerabilities persist, especially with several key defenders missing. Their tendency to concede goals, as seen last season, remains a concern.
Managerial Analysis and Criticisms
Ange Postecoglou has brought a new energy to Tottenham, focusing on attacking football and high intensity. However, his defensive strategies have sometimes been questioned. Ensuring defensive solidity while maintaining offensive pressure will be crucial for his success.
Steven Naismith, though a respected figure, has faced challenges in his managerial role. His tactical decisions and the team’s inconsistent performances have been points of criticism. The loss to Leyton Orient highlights the need for better defensive organisation and effective game management.
Predictions and Betting Angles
Best Bet: Tottenham -2 to Win
Given Tottenham’s superior quality and attacking prowess, betting on them to win with a -2 handicap is a solid choice. Spurs are likely to dominate and score multiple goals, making this a favourable bet.
Correct Score Prediction: Hearts 1-4 Tottenham
Reflecting Tottenham’s attacking strength and Hearts’ defensive struggles, a 4-1 victory for Spurs seems plausible. Hearts may manage a consolation goal, but Tottenham’s firepower should see them secure a comprehensive win.
Goalscorer Prediction: Heung-min Son to Score Anytime
Son’s scoring ability and recent form make him a prime candidate to find the net. His movement and finishing skills will pose a significant threat to Hearts’ defence.
Corner Prediction: Over 10.5 Corners
Both teams’ attacking tendencies and Tottenham’s high average of corners per game suggest that the total number of corners will exceed 10.5. This market provides a strong betting angle based on the statistical data.
Innovative Market: Player Total Shots on Target – James Maddison Over 2.5
Maddison’s role as a creative midfielder and his knack for taking shots from distance make this a viable bet. Expect him to test the goalkeeper multiple times throughout the match.
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