On Tuesday night, Marseille and Tottenham clash at the Stade Velodrome in what will be a pivotal encounter in deciding which teams make the Champions League last 16 from Group D.
Marseille form guideDespite starting gameweek six in fourth place in the Group, OM are just two points shy of Tottenham, who are currently group leaders, such is the group's openness.
A home victory would certainly go against the form book, though, as Marseille have lost three of their previous four competitive matches. Their recent record in the Champions League of just three wins from their previous 20 outings doesn’t suggest that OM will pull off the victory they need to seal a place in the last 16. Anything but a win would see the French side eliminated from the competition.
Tottenham form guideAntonio Conte’s team are in pole position to qualify for the last 16, as even a draw would be enough to book their place in the knockout stages. However, with topping the group potentially vital, the team from north London will want to head through with a victory.
Like the other teams in the group, Spurs have been less than consistent in the Champions League this season, and they have won just once in their last four matches in the competition.
Tottenham’s recent away form has been poor, too, as the visitors have lost three of their last four matches on their travels in the Champions League.
Latest team newsMarseille’s only absentee through injury is likely to be Manchester United loanee, Eric Bailly. Former Arsenal star Sead Kolasinac is expected to continue at centre-back in Bailly’s absence.
Tottenham look set to be without summer signing Richarlison through injury, while Cristian Romero and Dejan Kuleveski are injury doubts.
What am I backing?In terms of recent form, both teams have been going through underwhelming runs. With that in mind, I am backing this game to finish in a tight draw.
