Taha Hashim can write about real football.

The teams are out warming up. How exciting.

“Have fun playing, Will. I’m really excited to see how Bahlul Mustafazade will do against Dominic Solanke. Elvin Cafarquliyev was also brilliant every time I saw him. Greetings, Mr. Peters, Karabakh.”

Christoph writes an email to: “The 2004/05 Bundesliga opener was supposed to take place in Bremen at 8 p.m. Minutes before the start of the game there was a power outage nearby, resulting in all technology in the stadium being unavailable (although strangely the floodlights were still working). And just as the delayed kick-off was due to take place at 9.16pm, three of the four iconic floodlights went out, causing a further delay. The game finally started at 9:36 p.m. and Nelson Valdez’s winning goal in the 83rd minute may be the last Bundesliga goal ever scored.

“There have also been electrical problems at the Weserstadion in the past: I remember a friendly match between Germany and Scotland in 1999 where the lights went out at half-time, which significantly delayed the restart. Much to the chagrin of the fans in attendance, the problem was fixed, meaning many people had to witness even more terrible football than they already did. And to add insult to injury, Scotland won 1-0.

“Enjoy your minute by minute,

“Christopher”

Content is king.

“Suppose you get paid for the late kick-off and the game lasts much longer than planned?” asks Mr. Harris.

I’ve already spoken to the union on the phone.

Qarabag also had to walk the last bit to reach the ground. What a day for their players.

Kick-off confirmed for 8.35pm

Hoddle and Crouch talk about the greatest Spurs player of all time. Hoddle backs Jimmy Greaves and adds that Son is in his top six or seven.

Peter Crouch and Glenn Hoddle had to complete the final leg of their journey on foot due to problems on the surrounding roads.

Qarabag arrives

I was at Erik ten Hag’s press conference (more on that on Sunday). Jamie Jackson was on hand for a more immediate report.

Maybe it needs to be delayed…um…what’s your favorite kickoff ever postponed?

Brennan Johnson: “I’m really excited, all the players were looking forward to it.

“It’s just a matter of getting into the right position. If I can do that, I’ll have the chance to score.”

“It’s a really good opportunity to win a trophy, we have a great team.”

We won’t find out the kick-off time until they arrive. Pint?

Qarabag hasn’t arrived at the stadium yet…

Kick-off delayed

Ange Postecoglou: “It’s exciting to be back in Europe. If you’re not in Europe, you miss it. The players are excited and want to create a legacy.

“When you play against continental opponents, it’s always a different task than normal. It helps the team develop.

“It will be a great experience for the young boys from tonight onwards, I am sure they will learn a lot.

“Things you don’t win become a millstone around your neck, and to get rid of it you have to win things.”

Will there be dark arts in north London tonight?

Reading before the game.

Starting lineups

preamble