Tottenham Crowned Europa League 2024/25 Champions: A Historic Night in Bilbao

After 41 long years, Spurs finally lift a major European trophy, marking a turning point in club history at San Mamés, Spain.

🎯 Match Recap: Johnson Scores as Spurs' Defense Holds Strong

In the early hours of May 22 (Hanoi time), Tottenham Hotspur faced Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final at San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao.

In a tense and evenly matched encounter, Tottenham emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win. The only goal came in the 42nd minute, scored by forward Brennan Johnson.

Tottenham captain Son Heung-min and teammates celebrate winning the 2024/25

Johnson’s goal resulted from a quick counterattack. His shot deflected off United defender Luke Shaw, wrong-footing goalkeeper André Onana and rolling into the net.

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🛡️ United’s Efforts Denied by Resilient Tottenham Defense

Despite dominating possession and creating several dangerous chances in the second half, Manchester United couldn’t find a way past Spurs’ rock-solid defense.

Dutch center-back Micky van de Ven made a crucial goal-line clearance in the 78th minute, while goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario delivered a standout performance with key saves against Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Højlund.

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👔 Ange Postecoglou: The Australian Manager Who Made History

In just his first season at Tottenham, head coach Ange Postecoglou has already etched his name in club history.

His tactical philosophy—emphasizing fluid ball movement, high pressing, and tactical discipline—has transformed Spurs into a cohesive and confident unit.

Speaking after the match, Postecoglou said:

"This is just the beginning. We're building a team with character, ambition, and the hunger to conquer bigger challenges."

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🇰🇷 Son Heung-min: The Face of Victory and Pride of Asia

Club captain Son Heung-min lifted the Europa League trophy in front of a sea of elated Spurs fans. This marks the South Korean star’s first major team title since joining Tottenham in 2015.

Son’s consistent performances and leadership have made him a global ambassador for both Spurs and Asian football. In South Korea, the victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with local media hailing him as “a global symbol of belief and perseverance.”

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🏟️ Bilbao: The Stage of Glory

San Mamés Stadium, located in Bilbao (Basque Country, Spain), provided the perfect setting for a night of drama and history.

More than 50,000 fans filled the stadium, with thousands of Spurs supporters traveling from London to witness history. UEFA officials praised the venue’s organization and security, describing it as one of the best Europa League finals in recent years.

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📈 What This Victory Means for Spurs’ Future

Tottenham’s Europa League triumph not only ends a 17-year trophy drought (last winning the League Cup in 2008), but also secures them an automatic place in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League group stage.

This achievement is a massive boost for Postecoglou’s long-term project, especially as the club embraces a new generation of young, talented players.

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💬 Post-Match Reactions: Disappointment for United

On the other side, Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag voiced his frustration:

“We played well, controlled possession, and created chances. But that’s football – one mistake can cost you everything.”

Analysts believe this defeat could mark the end of Ten Hag’s reign at Old Trafford, as questions about his future continue to mount after a trophyless season.