Published on Apr 17, 2025
Tottenham Hotspur booked their place in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals with a gritty 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night, sealing a 2-1 aggregate win. A first-half penalty from Dominic Solanke proved decisive as Spurs continued their pursuit of a first European trophy in over three decades.
Solanke, who had not scored in his previous 12 appearances, stepped up with composure to convert from the spot after Frankfurt goalkeeper Kauã Santos brought down James Maddison inside the box. Maddison, unable to continue due to the impact, was substituted shortly after, but his early influence helped give Spurs the advantage they needed.
Following the win, manager Ange Postecoglou praised his squad’s unity and resilience, especially given the backdrop of a challenging domestic campaign that has seen them lose 17 times in the Premier League.
"The players and staff have just been outstanding," Postecoglou said. "I'm the frontman, but they take responsibility through my decisions and I've never felt they have ever doubted what we've been doing. We can't get too far ahead of ourselves. We're in the semi-final and will play a difficult opponent, but it's not about my belief in the team. It's about the belief the team has had."
The result sets up a semi-final clash with Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt, with the first leg scheduled for May 1. It marks Tottenham’s first appearance in a European semi-final since their run to the UEFA Champions League final in 2019. For Postecoglou and his players, the Europa League now represents their best and perhaps only opportunity to end the season with silverware.
Despite inconsistent form in England, Spurs’ European campaign has been a beacon of hope. With performances built on structure, self-belief, and moments of quality, Tottenham have shown they can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
The team’s confidence appears to be growing just at the right time. As they prepare for their two-legged tie against the rising force of Bodø/Glimt, Spurs will be looking to carry their momentum into what could be a historic European push.
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