1. Harry Kane is determined
Call me a happy clapper if you wish, but there was just something about the way Kane spoke about this match in yesterday’s press conference that caught my attention. He had the look of a player who was fed up with all the negativity surrounding Tottenham’s play in the Champions League and/or at Wembley.
As a result of that determined spirit, I’m betting on Kane to play an absolute blinder against Dortmund. Of course he’ll need more than his will to break down the Bundesliga giants. Fortunately he also has the talent and skills required to break down their defense.
As usual, Kane’s constant movement without the ball will be a key during the match. He’s the rare striker who can create scoring opportunities for his team without ever touching the ball. Both he and Christian Eriksen are marvelous at creating space with their runs off the ball. Without Dele Alli on the pitch, expect Kane’s runs into space to be even more prominent than usual.
Next: Tottenham's projected starting XI v Dortmund
Of course, for Spurs to win they’ll likely need Kane to find the back of the net. Luckily for Pochettino and company, he’s an excellent finisher too. One wrong move by Dortmund’s defense could give Kane just the space required to punish them on the score sheet. Wouldn’t surprise me a bit if Kane bags a brace today. He’ll lead his team to a crucial emotional win.