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The Galatasaray statistic which could expose Tottenham’s biggest weakness, it could be a huge problem

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Tottenham’s European campaign has gone swimmingly so far, but they are now set for their toughest test of the competition so far, in the shape of Galatasaray.

Having already beaten the likes of Qarabag, Ferencvaros and AZ Alkmaar, Spurs are sat second in the newly formed Europa League table – level on points with leaders Lazio.

Their next opponents, Galatasaray, are just points behind in fifth place, having enjoyed a bright start to the competition themselves.

The Turkish giants will undoubtedly present a tough task for Ange Postecoglou’s men – a task that could be made even harder by one damming statistic.

Tottenham Hotspur v AZ - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD3
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images

Galatasaray’s set piece record will worry Tottenham

With Tottenham’s trip to Turkiye on the horizon there is one burning factor that Postecoglou and his Spurs coaching staff must consider – and that is Galatasaray’s impressive set-piece record.

Both Frank Lampard and Roy Keane have criticised Tottenham’s set-piece defending, insisting Spurs need to improve their ‘mindset’ when it comes to defending their box.

Tottenham’s ‘mindset’ problem will undoubtedly be tested in Turkiye, with Galatasaray currently having the accolade of scoring the most set-piece goals in Europe so far this season.

Jose Mourinho has already warned Spurs about Victor Osimhen and the Nigerian could present Spurs with huge problems in the box – especially with expert delivery from the likes of Hakim Ziyech.

How could Tottenham fix set-piece problem against Galatasaray?

Guglielmo Vicario has been criticised by Spurs fans for his set-piece struggles and it may be a good idea to replace the Italian on Thursday evening.

Standing at a whopping 6ft 7, Tottenham’s backup keeper Fraser Forster may be a more viable option when it comes to combating Galatasaray’s set-piece strengths.

Most set-piece goals conceded in last two PL seasons
Nottingham Forest24
Tottenham20
Wolves19
Stats from SkySports

Radu Dragusin’s ‘great’ performance against Manchester City suggests he could also be key in stopping the Turkish champions. The Romanian’s ability to defend the box and clear any crosses could potentially help stop the onslaught from Okan Buruk’s side.