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‘Not Impossible’ – Tudor backs Tottenham to complete UCL comeback against Atletico

Tottenham Hotspur manager Igor Tudor insists his side still have a chance of reaching the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League despite a heavy first-leg defeat to Atletico Madrid.

Spurs trail 5-2 heading into the second leg, leaving them with a significant deficit to overturn after a difficult night in Madrid.

Tudor: Qualification still within reach

Tudor acknowledged the scale of the task but stressed belief remains within the squad.

“Both things, it is a game which we should play to pass,” he said. “It is difficult but not impossible. We need to stay in the game, focus on our strengths. Everything is still to play for.”

‘Not Impossible’ - Tudor backs Tottenham to complete UCL comeback against Atletico
Tudor backs Tottenham to stage comeback vs Atletico – Getty image

Tottenham will also draw encouragement from recent results, including a 1-1 draw against Liverpool that ended a five-game losing streak, while Atletico have suffered defeats to Rayo Vallecano and Barcelona in recent weeks.

Team news: Romero boost, Gallagher doubtful

Tudor confirmed that Cristian Romero is fit to return after a head injury sustained in the first leg.

However, Conor Gallagher remains a doubt due to illness, with a late decision expected on his availability.

“Cristian Romero is there, he can play,” Tudor added. “We will see tomorrow if Gallagher is fit for the bench.”

Joao Palhinha is ruled out, while Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall are only expected to play limited roles after returning from injury.

Van de Ven dismisses dressing room rumours

Defender Micky van de Ven rejected claims of unrest within the squad, insisting players remain fully committed.

“It’s just made up,” he said in response to speculation about dressing room issues. “The fans will believe it, and it brings more trouble, but trust me, everyone cares so much about the situation we’re in.”

Spurs now face a defining night in Europe as they attempt to produce a dramatic comeback and keep their Champions League hopes alive.