Tottenham vs. Crystal Palace: 5 key matchups

OSLO, NORWAY - AUGUST 05: Erik Lamela of Tottenham (C) celebrates after scoring the second goal during the friendly match between Tottenham FC Hotspur and Fc Internazionale played at Ullevaal Stadium on August 5, 2016 in Oslo, Norway. (Photo by Claudio Villa - Inter/Inter via Getty Images)
OSLO, NORWAY - AUGUST 05: Erik Lamela of Tottenham (C) celebrates after scoring the second goal during the friendly match between Tottenham FC Hotspur and Fc Internazionale played at Ullevaal Stadium on August 5, 2016 in Oslo, Norway. (Photo by Claudio Villa - Inter/Inter via Getty Images)
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LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 06 : Dele Alli of Tottenham Hotspur during the Barclays Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Watford at White Hart Lane on February 6, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06 : Dele Alli of Tottenham Hotspur during the Barclays Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Watford at White Hart Lane on February 6, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

2. Yohan Cabaye vs. Dele Alli

Here’s another example of two players that don’t seem to like one another. The two midfielders had quite a bit to say to one another on the pitch their last time out.

Again, both men will need to keep a cool head in this match. The Spurs star figures to have more of a challenge maintaining an even keel in comparison to the French veteran. However, both are capable of losing their cool in a tough moment.

In terms of their actual football ability, it will be a matchup of Cabaye’s guile and physicality versus Alli’s energy and skill. Cabaye will be looking to break up play whenever possible. Alli, will be attempting to rediscover his amazing form from last season.

If either of these men get an edge over the other, it could tilt the balance of the midfield competition in their club’s favor. The challenge for Palace is that Alli can change the match with one moment of brilliance. Cabaye, on the other hand, will need to be steady for the full 90 minutes to win out over the Spurs starlet.

Next: 1. Harry Kane vs. Scott Dann