Brennan Johnson’s decisive strike seals 1-0 win over Manchester United, books Spurs’ place in next season’s Champions League and ends the club’s long wait for continental glory
Bilbao, May 22: Tottenham Hotspur ended a 41-year wait for European silverware by edging past Manchester United 1-0 in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday night at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao. The victory marks Spurs’ first major trophy since 2008 and their first European title since the 1984 UEFA Cup, sealing an automatic spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
The final’s decisive moment came in the 42nd minute when Brennan Johnson pounced on a deflection from Luke Shaw to tap in the only goal of the match. The goal proved sufficient for manager Ange Postecoglou, who has endured a difficult domestic campaign, to earn his first major title with the club.
A Lifeline for Spurs, More Misery for United
With both sides languishing at the lower end of the Premier League table this season, the Europa League final offered a final shot at redemption. Tottenham grabbed the opportunity, while Manchester United’s defeat deepens the crisis under manager Ruben Amorim, whose side is sitting 16th in the league and now officially out of all European competitions for next season.
Tottenham, currently just ahead of United in the Premier League, will take huge solace in not only lifting a trophy but qualifying for the 2025–26 Champions League — a financial and reputational boost after a turbulent campaign.
Narrow Margin, Big Moments
While the contest was closely fought with few clear-cut chances, Tottenham’s defense held firm under United’s second-half pressure. Rasmus Hojlund came closest to equalising with a powerful header in the 68th minute, which was cleared off the line by Micky van de Ven. Late into stoppage time, a header by Luke Shaw forced a crucial save from Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, preserving the clean sheet.
Postecoglou’s Redemption, Son’s Reward
The win also brings emotional closure for Son Heung-min, who finally ended his trophy drought with Spurs after a decade-long wait. The South Korean star came off the bench in the 67th minute to help see the game out.
For Postecoglou, this triumph may prove career-defining. Despite an up-and-down first season, the Australian tactician managed to win over fans with an attacking brand of football and now has tangible success to show for it.
Historical Significance
This is only the second time Tottenham and United have faced each other in a final — the last being the 2009 League Cup, which United won on penalties. However, Spurs have dominated recent meetings, going unbeaten in seven consecutive matches against the Red Devils, including all four encounters this season.
United, whose last European triumph came in 2017 under Jose Mourinho, have now gone seven straight games without beating Tottenham, a troubling record that may increase scrutiny on Amorim’s tenure.
Final Score:
Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 Manchester United
Goal: Brennan Johnson (42’)
Venue: San Mames Stadium, Bilbao
Attendance: Nearly 50,000