Tottenham Hotspur hosts Villarreal in their Champions League opener on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

What's at Stake?

The match presents a fascinating clash of historical records, with Tottenham having a dreadful record against Spanish opposition, winning just one of their last 13 European games. Conversely, Villarreal has never beaten an English team in the Champions League in 14 attempts.

Team News

Thomas Frank faces significant selection challenges, with long-term absentees James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski out. Yves Bissouma and Mathys Tel were not included in the Champions League squad. Striker Dominic Solanke is a major doubt with an ankle injury.

Villarreal's Challenges

Manager Marcelino is dealing with a defensive injury crisis, with Logan Costa, Pau Cabanes, and Willy Kambwala all sidelined. Star forward Gerard Moreno is also a doubt. The visitors face a quick turnaround, having played a demanding La Liga match against Atlético Madrid on Sunday evening.

Form

Tottenham is in excellent form, sitting third in the Premier League after a convincing 3-0 derby win over West Ham. Their home ground is a fortress in Europe, with the team unbeaten in their last 20 UEFA competition games.

Predicted Lineups

TeamPredicted XI
Tottenham HotspurVicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Sarr, Bentancur, Bergvall; Kudus, Richarlison, Simons
VillarrealLuiz Júnior; Mourino, Foyth, Veiga, Cardona; Partey, Parejo, Moleiro; Buchanan, Pepe; Mikautadze