Tottenham and Manchester United face each other this Thursday (19th) in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals, promising a breathtaking duel. This match isn’t just another clash between English giants; it carries historical weight, curious statistics, and, of course, the pressure for a spot in the semifinals. While Spurs aim to maintain their recent unbeaten streak against the Red Devils, United relies on their powerful attack, even with key absences.
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Balance and curiosities
The statistics between the two clubs in the Carabao Cup are balanced, as on the six occasions they faced each other, three went ahead for each team. Yet, in their recent appearances against each other in this tournament, Manchester United took it over, first winning on penalties against Spurs in the 2009 final and then in the 2009-10 quarterfinals with a result of 2-0.
With this in mind, if Tottenham is to break a nearly 35-year streak without back-to-back wins over United (dating back to 1990), the numbers seem somewhat favorable. The London side hasn't lost any of its last four league matches to Manchester United (2-0-2), including that 3-0 smashing earlier this campaign.
Tottenham: undefeated streak and defense
Tottenham comes into this match very confident, given their recent performances in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals. Having been knocked out by West Ham in 2013-14, Spurs have progressed in all four matches at this stage since then: 2014-15, 2018-19, 2020-21, and 2021-22.
However, not everything is perfect for Ange Postecoglou's team, which has a series of defensive problems. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are still out, injured against Chelsea. According to the Australian coach, both are expected to return only in 2025:
"Van de Ven and Romero are recovering. It is not as serious like Micky's previous one but we need to make sure they come back 100% ready in the new year."
Besides the duo, names such as Richarlison, Guglielmo Vicario, Ben Davies, Wilson Odobert and Mikey Moore complete the list of absentees which is forcing Postecoglou into finding creative solutions to keep the opponent's attack on hold.
Manchester United: overwhelming attack but injury concerns
While Tottenham are looking for defensive solutions, Manchester United is trusting in the offensive strength they have shown in the Carabao Cup. With 12 goals in two games, the Red Devils lead the scoring charts this season. Dominant victories, 7-0 against Barnsley and 5-2 over Leicester.
One leading the charge is Alejandro Garnacho, who has 3 goals and 3 assists in the tournament, becoming the first to reach those numbers since Kevin De Bruyne in 2015-16. Garnacho of Manchester United and Dejan Kulusevski of Tottenham share the lead in assists with 3 apiece.
However, not everything is perfect for coach Rúben Amorim, who faces significant roster issues. Midfielder Mason Mount is ruled out, while Noussair Mazraoui and Luke Shaw remain doubtful. On Garnacho and Marcus Rashford, who missed Sunday’s derby, Amorim was clear:
"They’re training, so we’ll see. If they feel good, they’ll be ready to play."
With so many uncertainties, it would be yet to be seen whether United's attacking power will be sufficient to cover the weaknesses in their defense.
The numbers that matter
The Carabao Cup is known for its surprises. However, some numbers have stood out:
- Tottenham has not lost a quarterfinal since 2013-14.
- Manchester United is this season's top scorer with 12 goals.
- Garnacho is the most decisive player in the competition so far, with 3 goals and 3 assists.
- United have won the last two Carabao Cup encounters between the clubs.
However, Spurs have a weapon that can make the difference: home advantage and their recent momentum against the opponent.