Thu 21 August 2014, 09:26
Tottenham HotspurNabil Bentaleb expects a tough baptism in this season's Europa League in Cyprus.
We take on AEL Limassol in the first leg of our play-off tie at the Antonis Papadopoulos Stadium in Larnaca.
AEL lost their domestic title play-off against APOEL of Nicosia but kicked-off their European campaign in the third round qualifying stage of the Champions League, beating Zenit at home before a 3-0 loss in the second leg.
They are six-times Cypriot champions - the last time in 2012 - and Nabil knows we’ll have to be on our mettle.
“We can expect a tough game and there are no easy games, especially away in Europe,” said the midfielder. “We have to be ready.
“If we can manage a good result in the first leg I’m sure we can do something positive back at home.”
Nabil featured in Europe for the first time in the knockout stages of the Europe League after making his full debut in the Premier League in December.
He tasted two tough away fixtures after starting in Dnipro and Benfica as we eventually bowed out at the last 16 stage to the Portuguese giants in March.
“It’s a great competition and to play in these games gives you more confidence, more experience and helps you grow as a player,” he added.
We kick-off at 5pm UK time tonight - follow the action live via our revamped Match Centre - including minute-by-minute and audio commentary.
