Tottenham vs. Borussia Dortmund: 5 key match-ups

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OPORTO, PORTUGAL – FEBRUARY 25: Dortmund’s forward Aubameyang celebrates scoring Dortmund goal during the Champions League match between FC Porto and Borussia Dortmund for UEFA Europa League Round of 32: Second Leg at Estadio do Dragao on February, 2016 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images) /

1. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang vs. Toby Alderweireld and Kevin Wimmer

Aubameyang is almost certainly the most in-form striker in the world this season. The Gabon attacker has been a nightmare for opposing centre backs all year, and Tottenham’s pairing of Alderweireld and Wimmer will certainly have their hands full with the fleet-footed forward.

To say that Aubameyang has been prolific this season would be a giant understatement. He’s scored exactly 32 goals in exactly 32 matches for club and country this season. You don’t have to be a math wizard to figure out that comes out to an average of one goal every time he steps out onto the pitch.

On the other hand, Tottenham has ridden their stingy defense to second place in the Premier League. A big part of their defensive success certainly is owed to their stellar centre back play. The one constant, Toby Alderweireld, has proven to be one of the Premier League’s best at his position. Wimmer, who starts in place of the injured Jan Vertonghen, has performed admirably despite his lack of experience. It has to be considered a plus that he will be familiar with Dortmund after his season at Cologne.

It’s not a reasonable expectation that Tottenham’s centre back pairing can silence Aubameyang altogether, the best they can hope for is to limit his chances. If they can prevent him from getting the type of clean chances he’s thrived on this season, then goalkeeper Hugo Lloris may be able to keep him off the score sheet. That’s a tall task, but succeeding in it would give Tottenham a huge edge versus the Bundesliga club.

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