Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham take on Sydney FC this morning in the second match of their pre-season tour, and there is a surprise inclusion in the starting lineup. Spurs began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Auckland FC at Eden Park last weekend, also beating Milton Keynes 1-0 in a behind-closed-doors friendly.
Team news and absentees
De Zerbi named a youthful team against Auckland, wary of exposing senior players after a long trip. More familiar faces were expected in Sydney, with fans hoping to see new signings Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Mateus Fernandes. However, Fernandes is not involved at all due to injury concerns, Robertson is among the substitutes, and Van Hecke misses out entirely. Club record signing Sandro Tonali also missed the Auckland game and could feature from the bench.
Wantaway midfielder Lucas Bergvall starts, partnering Archie Gray in midfield. James Maddison and Destiny Udogie are absent after De Zerbi revealed he was unwilling to risk their fitness. Dominic Solanke is also not in the matchday squad as the manager manages minutes for injury-prone players. Those on extended leave from the World Cup have yet to return.
Youth opportunities and lineup
Younger players continue to get chances. Centre-back Malachi Hardy has impressed, while Mikey Moore hopes to break into the first team. Mathys Tel made a positive impact off the bench against Auckland, and Richarlison scored in that match. Richarlison leads the line with Tel starting on the left. Jamie Donley, who impressed but hobbled off against Auckland, is a substitute.
Spurs face Sydney in the first of two Sydney Super Cup games, with a match against Chelsea also scheduled this weekend.
Tottenham XI: Dubravka; Kyerematen, Davies, Hardy, Hall; Gray, Bergvall; Solomon, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison
Subs: Kinsky, Robertson, Takai, Tingey, Byrne, Tyrese Hall, Russell-Denny, Donley, Tonali, Ajayi, Yang, Williams-Barnett, Scarlett
Time and date: 10.45am BST on Wednesday July 29, 2026
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
How to watch: SpursPlay
