Tottenham Hotspur lifted their first major trophy since 2008 as Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal sealed a dramatic 1-0 win over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final on Thursday night at San Mamés. The victory not only snapped a 17-year silverware drought but also marked Spurs’ first European title since 1984.
Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou delivered on his promise of bringing success in his second season at the helm, etching his name alongside club legends Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw. The Australian tactician’s emotional post-match interview reflected the weight of history he had just altered.
“Until you take that monkey off your back, you never truly understand what it feels like,” Postecoglou said. “I’m hoping this experience feeds into our young group and changes how they see themselves.”
European Triumph Amid Domestic Struggles
Tottenham and Manchester United both endured disappointing Premier League campaigns, finishing 17th and 16th respectively. But while United’s season ends in despair—missing out on European football for the first time since 2014–15—Spurs’ European triumph offers a lifeline, guaranteeing them a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League and a £100 million revenue boost.
Match Recap: Brennan Johnson Strikes
In a tightly contested final, Spurs stunned many by benching captain Son Heung-min, while United manager Ruben Amorim opted to start Mason Mount over Alejandro Garnacho.
United looked lively early, with Bruno Fernandes creating opportunities and Amad Diallo testing goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. But the breakthrough came in the 36th minute. Pape Matar Sarr surged down the left and fired in a low cross. Brennan Johnson and Luke Shaw collided at the near post, and after a deflection, Johnson managed to poke the ball past André Onana.
United had their best chance to equalise after a goalkeeping error by Vicario, but Rasmus Højlund failed to convert. Despite dominating possession in the second half, the Red Devils lacked the finishing touch and struggled to break down Tottenham’s solid backline.
A New Chapter for Tottenham
The Europa League triumph not only delivers overdue success for Spurs fans but could also serve as a turning point for the club’s trajectory. Postecoglou, who took over amid skepticism, now has tangible proof of progress.
As the celebrations unfolded in Bilbao, the significance of the moment wasn’t lost on the players or supporters. Spurs are back on the European map—and they did it their way.
