The last Tottenham XI to win at Anfield back in 2011 – Steven Pienaar starts
Tottenham Hotspur are on the brink of reaching the Carabao Cup final, but to get there, they must overcome a daunting challenge – Liverpool at Anfield, a ground they have failed to win at in the last 14 years. Let’s have a look at the last Tottenham team to win at Anfield.
Tottenham’s tough history at Anfield
Tottenham Hotspur stand just 90 minutes away from securing a place in the Carabao Cup final, a crucial step towards ending their 17-year trophy drought. Spurs hold a slender 1-0 lead from the first leg of their semi-final, but history is not on their side as they head to Merseyside.
Anfield has been a fortress for Liverpool, particularly when Tottenham come to town. The North London side’s record at this iconic stadium is far from impressive, with just two Premier League victories to their name.
It was back in May 2011 when Harry Redknapp’s Tottenham side produced a commanding 2-0 victory over Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool.
With an inspired midfield and solid defensive display, Spurs left Anfield with all three points in what proved to be a significant result in their Premier League campaign. But who were the players that made history that day, and where are they now?
Revisiting the Tottenham Hotspur XI that conquered Liverpool at Anfield
It was a sunny afternoon at Anfield when Tottenham Hotspur achieved their second-ever Premier League win at the ground, and it was goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini who played a key role, keeping a clean sheet behind a resolute defensive line.
The defence was marshalled by Ledley King, Tottenham’s captain and a player whose leadership and reading of the game made up for his chronic injury troubles.
Alongside him was Michael Dawson, a no-nonsense centre-back known for his bravery and commitment. Younes Kaboul and Danny Rose occupied the full-back positions, adding a combination of strength and energy on the flanks.
In midfield, Tottenham’s quality proved decisive. Sandro provided the defensive cover, allowing Luka Modric and Rafael van der Vaart to orchestrate proceedings.
Modric, with his pinpoint passing and vision, dictated the tempo, while Van der Vaart’s attacking instincts and clinical finishing saw him open the scoring inside the first nine minutes. Aaron Lennon and Steven Pienaar offered width and creativity on the wings, stretching Liverpool’s defence throughout the match.
Up front, Peter Crouch led the line. The towering forward, returning to his former club, provided a physical presence and held the ball up effectively for his teammates. Crouch’s experience was vital in unsettling Liverpool’s defence, contributing to a well-rounded team performance that secured a 2-0 win.
Here is the starting XI from that day:
- Carlo Cudicini
- Younes Kaboul
- Michael Dawson
- Ledley King
- Danny Rose
- Sandro
- Luka Modric
- Rafael van der Vaart
- Aaron Lennon
- Steven Pienaar
- Peter Crouch
Can Spurs repeat history?
Harry Redknapp’s tactical approach worked perfectly that day, with Spurs taking the lead early through Van der Vaart’s composed finish before Modric doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the second half.
The victory lifted Tottenham above Liverpool in the league table, with the North London side eventually finishing the season in fifth place, four points ahead of the Reds.
Fast-forward to today and Tottenham will be hoping for a similar result. While Ange Postecoglou’s side has shown flashes of brilliance this season, winning at Anfield remains a challenge that few teams manage to overcome.
A win of any kind—whether in regular time or through penalties—will be enough to send the Lilywhites into the final, joining Newcastle United in what could be a thrilling climax to the competition.
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