Non-league Tamworth will face Premier League giants Tottenham in the FA Cup third round this weekend, marking a massive clash in the football pyramid. With 96 places between them, this is one of the biggest gaps in the third round, and the Tamworth team will be hoping for an unforgettable giant-killing performance.
Tamworth, who have been impressive in their first season back in the National League, have already pulled off some surprises in this year's FA Cup. After earning promotion as National League North champions, they have been on a historic run, knocking out League One sides Huddersfield Town and Burton Albion, and defeating Macclesfield in the fourth qualifying round. Goalkeeper Jasbir Singh has been the hero in key moments, saving two penalties to help them secure their place in the third round.
Despite being without Ben Acquaye due to injury, Tamworth will field a strong team for this encounter. Defender Jordan Cullinane-Liburd returns after a suspension, providing a boost for the side.
Tottenham, on the other hand, will come into this match with some key players returning from suspension, including James Maddison and Pape Matar Sarr. While they have faced injury struggles this season, Spurs will look to build on their recent success in the cup competitions, including a narrow victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. Manager Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that Antonin Kinsky will start, with Rodrigo Bentancur unavailable due to concussion protocols.
Both sides have had inconsistent league form recently, with Tamworth sitting mid-table in the National League, and Tottenham struggling in the Premier League. However, Tottenham will be the favorites for this tie, but with the magic of the FA Cup, anything can happen.
Predicted Lineups:
Tamworth: Singh; Sundrie, Cullinane-Liburd, Hollis, Fairlamb; Tonks, Milnes; McGlinchey, Morrison, Enoru; Creaney.
Tottenham: Kinsky; Spence, Dorrington, Dragusin, Reguilon; Sarr, Bergvall, Maddison; Johnson, Lankshear, Werner.
Key Players to Watch:
- Tamworth: Goalkeeper Jasbir Singh will be crucial in keeping Spurs at bay, while their attack, led by Enoru and Creaney, will look to cause an upset.
- Tottenham: James Maddison will be the key creative force for Spurs, while Antonin Kinsky will need to lead the defense.
Match Prediction:
Given the gulf in class, Tottenham are expected to come through, but Tamworth will be desperate to continue their fairy-tale run. The FA Cup has a history of surprises, so don't count out a potential upset.
Prediction: Tamworth 1-3 Tottenham
