Bilbao, Spain — After nearly two decades of waiting, Tottenham Hotspur finally broke their long-standing trophy drought with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday. The win marks the North London club’s first piece of silverware since the 2008 League Cup, and it came in a tense, hard-fought match at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao.
Brennan Johnson Delivers the Decisive Blow
The game may not have dazzled with technical brilliance, but it had everything riding on it for Spurs. The defining moment arrived just before halftime when Brennan Johnson pounced on a loose ball inside the box. A cross from Pape Sarr caused confusion in United’s defense, and after a failed clearance by Luke Shaw, Johnson nudged the ball past Andre Onana to put Spurs ahead. It was a scrappy goal—but one that proved priceless.
A Tense, Gritty Final
Both teams came out showing attacking intent, but their poor league finishes—16th for Spurs and 17th for United—were evident in the lack of rhythm and conviction. The match quickly turned physical, with neither side able to dominate play or create many clear-cut chances.
In the second half, Manchester United pushed hard for an equalizer but struggled to break down Tottenham’s disciplined backline. Their best chance came when Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario mishandled a simple pass, gifting the ball to Rasmus Højlund, whose header looked destined for the net—only for Micky van de Ven to pull off a stunning clearance on the line.
Alejandro Garnacho was introduced to inject pace and energy, and while he did threaten Pedro Porro briefly, Tottenham remained composed under pressure and saw out the match with maturity.
A Win to Remember
For manager Ange Postecoglou, the result vindicated his pre-match optimism. Known for delivering results in his second season at previous clubs, the Australian coach now adds a European trophy to his growing list of achievements.
“It wasn’t about playing beautiful football tonight. It was about belief, discipline, and heart,” Postecoglou said post-match.
The win not only brings long-awaited joy to the Tottenham faithful but also secures a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League, providing a much-needed boost after a turbulent domestic campaign.
After 17 years of waiting, Spurs fans can finally celebrate a European triumph that could mark the beginning of a new era.
