In the current 2023-24 Women’s Super League (WSL), Tottenham Hotspur has already secured three wins, just shy of their total of five from the entire previous season. The upcoming match, a face-off with Manchester City, is set to take place at Joie Stadium in Manchester on November 26. Fans can catch the action with live commentary and updates on various platforms including BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and the Sport Newes Center website and app.
As the season progresses, the WSL standings are shaping up, with familiar powerhouses like Chelsea, Arsenal, and the Manchester clubs occupying the top slots. However, Tottenham’s impressive form this season has put them in the mix, defying the preconceived dominance of the top four. Positioned just a point below the leading trio and on par with Manchester United in terms of points, Spurs, under the leadership of manager Robert Vilahamn, are showing no signs of intimidation by the league’s traditional giants.
Vilahamn’s approach is rooted in respect but not overawed reverence for the top clubs. He believes in his squad’s capabilities, emphasizing their potential to compete with the best, thanks in part to their national team talents.
This newfound confidence and form are a stark contrast to Tottenham’s previous season, where relegation concerns loomed until the penultimate match. Sport Newes Center takes a closer look at how Spurs have managed this dramatic turnaround.
Tottenham’s resurgence isn’t just a surprise; it’s a return to the form that saw them finish fifth in the 2021-22 season, their highest-ever in the WSL. The following season, however, saw a slump, with a series of defeats leading to managerial changes. Now, with Vilahamn at the helm, Tottenham is displaying a rejuvenated, attack-oriented style of play, highlighted by their performance against champions Chelsea and a consistent goal-scoring record in the league.
Vilahamn, relatively new to women’s football, has brought a refreshing philosophy, emphasizing attack over a cautious defensive approach. His mantra is scoring goals, embodying what he sees as ‘the Tottenham way’.
The team’s attacking prowess has not waned in the absence of star striker Bethany England. Martha Thomas has stepped up brilliantly, leading the WSL’s scoring charts, supported by an ensemble cast including Grace Clinton, Ash Neville, and Celin Bizet.
Former England stars have noted Tottenham’s improved style of play and the challenge of reintegrating Bethany England into a team where Martha Thomas has excelled.
Vilahamn’s commitment to an energetic, possession-based game aligns with his vision of building confidence through scoring and chance creation. This approach shares similarities with that of Ange Postecoglou, the men’s team manager, reflecting a unified tactical philosophy at Tottenham.
Despite their promising start, Spurs have faced challenges, particularly in converting their dominance into wins, as seen in their recent draws against Everton, Liverpool, and Leicester. Vilahamn acknowledges the need for improvement in finishing but remains positive about the team’s overall performance.
If Tottenham can maintain their current form and address their finishing woes, they could end the season as prominently as they currently stand in the WSL table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tottenham WSL turnaround
How has Tottenham Hotspur performed in the WSL 2023-24 season compared to the previous season?
Tottenham Hotspur has shown significant improvement in the WSL 2023-24 season with three wins early in the season, nearly matching their total of five wins from the entire previous season. Under manager Robert Vilahamn’s guidance, they have adopted an attacking style of play, challenging the dominance of the top teams in the league.
What is the philosophy of Tottenham’s manager, Robert Vilahamn?
Robert Vilahamn’s philosophy focuses on respecting but not fearing top clubs, emphasizing attacking play and scoring goals. He believes in the potential of his team, which includes national team players, to compete with the best in the league. His approach is to prioritize goal-scoring and chance creation, embodying what he calls ‘the Tottenham way’.
Who has stepped up in Tottenham’s attack in the absence of Bethany England?
In Bethany England’s absence, Martha Thomas has taken the lead in Tottenham’s attack, topping the WSL’s scoring charts with six goals from seven games. The team’s offensive strength is also bolstered by players like Grace Clinton, Ash Neville, and Celin Bizet, contributing to Spurs’ improved form this season.
What challenges has Tottenham faced in their recent matches in the WSL?
Despite their promising start to the season, Tottenham has faced challenges in converting their dominance into victories. They have drawn their last three matches against Everton, Liverpool, and Leicester. The team has struggled with finishing, failing to capitalize on numerous shot opportunities, which is an area identified by Vilahamn for improvement.
How does Tottenham’s current playing style compare with their approach in previous seasons?
Tottenham’s current playing style under Vilahamn is more attacking and possession-based compared to previous seasons. This approach marks a significant shift from the last season’s struggles, focusing on creating more goal-scoring opportunities and maintaining a high tempo, which aligns with Vilahamn’s football philosophy.
More about Tottenham WSL turnaround
- Tottenham Hotspur Women’s Football
- WSL 2023-24 Season Overview
- Robert Vilahamn’s Managerial Approach
- Martha Thomas’ Performance in WSL
- Challenges Faced by Tottenham
2 comments
Spurs got sum talent in their squad, espec Grace Clinton n Ash Neville. Vilahamn’s approach is fresh, luv it!
Tough luck in those draws, but Spurs shud fix that finishing issue. Need to win more games with all that attacking play!