Key Points
- Praising Tottenham’s “passion, desire and fight,” Martin Ho, head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, expressed this after the side began its Barclays Women’s Super League season undefeated.
- Tottenham has kicked off its season with a 3-1 win against West Ham United and a 1-1 draw with Liverpool.
- Newly promoted Crystal Palace will go into the match on high spirits having drawn 0-0 against Arsenal in the Emirates stadium.
- It was stressed by Martin Ho that the key to victory is breaking down Palace’s well-organized defense.
Tottenham Hotspur (North London News) September 18, 2026 — Tottenham Hotspur Women Head Coach Martin Ho has publicly commended the “passion, desire and fight” displayed by his squad as they prepare to face London rivals Crystal Palace in the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL). Tottenham Hotspur enter the London derby unbeaten in the league, having picked up four points from their opening two fixtures.
How has Tottenham Hotspur’s season started so far?
As reported by VAVEL, Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed a strong start to their domestic campaign. Spurs secured a convincing 3-1 victory against West Ham United on the opening weekend before holding Liverpool to a 1-1 draw. In that fixture, Signe Gaupset’s effort resulted in an early breakthrough before the points were shared.
Speaking ahead of the clash with Crystal Palace, Ho expressed satisfaction with his players’ collective effort, determination, and tactical execution. The Head Coach noted that the underlying foundations of their work ethic remain the primary driver behind their positive performances.
What challenge does Crystal Palace present?
As detailed by WSL Football, newly promoted Crystal Palace have demonstrated remarkable resilience early in the season. Palace held Arsenal to a goalless 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium last week, producing an impressive defensive display led by goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, captain Aimee Everett, and defender Molly Bartrip.
Addressing Palace’s defensive strength, Ho highlighted that Tottenham must remain patient and creative to penetrate their opponent’s compact shape. Palace’s disciplined setup will require Spurs to control possession effectively while remaining vigilant against counter-attacks.
Background of the particular development
Martin Ho was appointed as Tottenham Hotspur Women’s Head Coach in July 2025, becoming the third full-time head coach in the club’s history. Prior to his appointment in North London, Ho held coaching positions at Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Norwegian side SK Brann, where he led the club to the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals. Following an impressive debut season in charge, Ho signed a long-term contract extension with Tottenham in March 2026.
Historically, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace have met twice in the Women’s Super League during the 2024/25 campaign. Spurs won both encounters, earning a 4-0 victory in September 2024 and a 3-2 win in January 2025. However, with structural changes across both squads ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, both sides enter this fixture under dynamic tactical setups.
How this development can affect Tottenham Hotspur supporters and the club
This positive tactical trajectory directly impacts Tottenham Hotspur supporters and the club’s broader ambitions in several ways:
- European Qualification Ambitions: Continuing an unbeaten run reinforces Tottenham’s goal to push for top-three positioning and potential UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification.
- Squad Culture and Morale: Ho’s public backing enhances squad confidence, trust, and tactical belief during key derby fixtures.
- Fan Engagement: Sustained consistency and competitive performances continue to grow matchday attendances and engagement across North London.
