Tottenham vs Borussia Dortmund prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - 20 January 2026
One of the headline fixtures of Matchday 7 in the Champions League group stage takes place on Tuesday at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, where Tottenham will host Borussia Dortmund. Here’s a prediction focused on attacking football in a clash that promises to be action-packed.
Match preview
Tottenham continue to struggle domestically, but their Champions League form has been far more stable and convincing. Their home record in the competition is impressive: three matches, three wins, and not a single goal conceded—giving Thomas Frank’s men a solid foundation heading into this crucial phase. However, squad issues persist: an already lengthy injury list is compounded by Van de Ven’s suspension and an injury to Ben Davies.
Despite their domestic woes, Spurs know how to rise to the occasion on European nights, especially at home. The support from the stands, disciplined defending, and an ability to punish opponents’ mistakes are the key assets for the London side. A win here could secure qualification for the playoff round—making Tuesday’s game absolutely pivotal.
Borussia Dortmund come into this match buoyed by a dramatic late win in the Bundesliga over St. Pauli. However, their away form on the European stage is a concern: the Black and Yellows have conceded heavily and lacked stability on the road. In three away Champions League matches, Kovac’s team has shipped 10 goals—one of the worst defensive records away from home in the tournament.
Nevertheless, Dortmund remain highly ambitious—direct qualification for the round of 16 is still within reach, and there will be no shortage of motivation. The key question: will Serhou Guirassy start? He could add real firepower to the visitors’ attack. Expect tactical adjustments in both defense and midfield as well.
Probable lineups
- Tottenham: Vicario, Danso, Romero, Spence, Porro, Bergvall, Gray, Tel, Simons, Odobert, Kolo Muani
- Borussia Dortmund: Kobel, Can, Anton, Schlotterbeck, Couto, Nmecha, Bellingham, Svensson, Adeyemi, Brandt, Guirassy
Match facts and head-to-head
- Tottenham have kept clean sheets and won to nil in each of their last three home Champions League games.
- Borussia Dortmund have conceded 10 goals in three Champions League away matches this season.
- The last two head-to-heads between these teams in London have ended with Tottenham victories by an aggregate score of 6-1.
Prediction
Tottenham remain a formidable European force at home despite their domestic turbulence. However, serious defensive absences could prove decisive. Dortmund, although shaky on the road, have enough quality to exploit any weaknesses. With both sides highly motivated and boasting attacking talent, a high-scoring draw looks the most likely outcome.
