Tottenham Hotspur’s recent loss to Newcastle United was a tough blow, especially considering how much control they had during key moments of the game. Spurs dominated possession and created more chances, yet still walked away with nothing to show for it. This has become a troubling pattern, with fans all too familiar with their team’s ability to control matches but fail to secure the win.
Despite the progress made under Ange Postecoglou, one significant tactical issue continues to hinder Spurs: their static attack against teams that deploy a wide low block defense. This problem was evident in their defeat at St. James’ Park and has been a recurring obstacle in other matches this season. As Tottenham prepares for their next game against Arsenal, this issue becomes even more critical to address.
The Tactical Issue: Static Attack Against a Wide Low Block Defense
The primary tactical challenge facing Tottenham is their predictable and static attacking approach when up against a wide low block defense. Spurs often aim to create one-vs-one situations out wide, relying on cutbacks and crosses into the box. While this can work against teams that allow space, it falters against well-organized defenses that close down the wide areas and force Spurs to play in front of them.
Against Newcastle, this predictability was Tottenham’s undoing. Despite their dominance in possession, they struggled to break down Newcastle’s defense, often resorting to hopeful crosses and speculative long-range efforts. The lack of dynamic movement in the penalty area made it easier for Newcastle to defend, and without a natural striker like Dominic Solanke or Richarlison, Spurs lacked the sharpness needed to turn their chances into goals.
Why It Matters
This struggle to break down low block defenses is not an isolated issue but a recurring problem for Tottenham. In their first away game of the season against Leicester City, Spurs similarly dominated but failed to make their superiority count, eventually settling for a disappointing draw. Across these matches, Tottenham has often controlled the game but lacked the cutting edge to consistently find the back of the net, highlighting a critical flaw in their tactical setup.
As Tottenham prepares for a high-stakes North London Derby against Arsenal, this issue takes on even greater importance. Arsenal, known for their solid defensive structure under Mikel Arteta, will likely present a similar challenge. If Spurs cannot find a way to adapt their attacking approach, they risk being stifled by Arsenal’s defense, which could lead to another frustrating result.
The Solution
To overcome this tactical hurdle, Postecoglou needs to introduce more variety and dynamism into Tottenham’s attacking play. Spurs must find ways to break down wide low block defenses by utilizing quick, incisive passing through the middle, encouraging more off-the-ball movement, and creating overloads in central areas. Additionally, improving the team’s composure and decision-making in the final third will be crucial to converting dominance into goals. All of these solutions will of course be much easier to implement once Spurs’ summer signing, Solanke is back from injury.
Given the high stakes of the upcoming match against Arsenal, this adaptation is not just necessary—it’s urgent. A win against their fiercest rivals could provide the momentum needed to push Tottenham back on track for a successful season.
Conclusion
Ange Postecoglou has undoubtedly brought a more progressive and attractive style of play to Tottenham, but the team’s static attack against wide low block defenses is a significant tactical issue that must be resolved. As Spurs gear up for their crucial clash against Arsenal, the need to address this problem becomes even more pressing. If Tottenham are to challenge for a top-four finish this season, they must become more unpredictable and effective in their approach to breaking down stubborn defenses. The North London Derby could be the turning point that determines whether Postecoglou can guide Tottenham back on track.