A fresh prediction from Opta’s AI model has given Tottenham a major boost as they chase a spot in the Europa League final.
Ange Postecoglou would have been pleased with the display his Tottenham Hotspur side produced in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.
It was a professional, confident performance that saw Spurs take a 3-1 lead into the second leg, a semi-final performance that Postecoglou believes should be enough to send them through if replicated in Norway.
Tottenham will know they cannot take anything for granted, as Bodo/Glimt have shown their quality throughout the competition, and have already demonstrated that scoring two or three goals at home is well within their grasp.
They beat Olympiacos 3-0 and saw off Lazio 2-0 on their own turf earlier in the campaign. The trip to Norway will be a test of mentality and composure for this Spurs team.
But with key players hitting form and a place in a European final at stake, there will be no shortage of motivation as they aim to get the job done.
Tottenham backed by Opta supercomputer to beat Bodo/Glimt in Europa League
Dominic Solanke insisted the Bodo/Glimt tie is far from over and stated that Tottenham would be fully focused on finishing the job when they travel to Norway.
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The 3-1 cushion provides breathing room, but the forward was clear – the players know they still have work to do.
Ahead of the second leg, Opta’s supercomputer has offered its prediction for the outcome of the semi-final.
The AI model believes Spurs will see off Bodo/Glimt and reach the final of the Europa League, which would be a massive step for Ange Postecoglou in his second season.
However, the data-driven forecast does not offer good news for Tottenham fans dreaming of silverware.
Manchester United are currently tipped to win the final, with Opta giving them a 52.4% chance of lifting the trophy.
The Red Devils are projected to reach the final in 97.6% of simulations, compared to Tottenham’s 91.1% – who have a 43.2% chance of going all the way.
Spurs still have edge over Manchester United despite prediction
Ange Postecoglou and his players will not be distracted by the numbers. Their priority remains the second leg against Bodo/Glimt, and only after that will thoughts turn to the final.
That said, the idea of an all-English final against Manchester United adds intrigue. The Red Devils are in pole position after a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao, but Spurs will quietly fancy their chances given their recent record against Ruben Amorim’s side.
Tottenham have beaten Manchester United three times this season already, and historically have a stronger final win percentage. If they make it to San Mames, belief will not be in short supply.