Tottenham wins Europa League, ends 17-year trophy drought

Tottenham Hotspur won the UEFA Europa League on Wednesday night, beating Manchester United 1-0 to claim their first trophy since 2008 and first European title in over 40 years.

The final, held at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, was a scrappy affair, but Spurs made the most of their moment. The only goal came late in the first half when Brennan Johnson managed to bundle in a deflected cross after a chaotic sequence involving Luke Shaw. It was enough to separate the sides.

Spurs' captain Son Heung-min lifted the trophy amid emotional celebrations, marking a major moment for a club that has often been labeled as falling short in big matches. The win also earned Tottenham a place in next season’s Champions League — a significant boost after a poor domestic campaign that saw them finish 17th in the Premier League.

Micky van de Ven delivered the play of the match in the second half, pulling off a dramatic goal-line clearance to deny Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund. Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario followed up with two crucial saves late in the game to preserve the clean sheet.

Despite both teams struggling in the league — with United finishing 16th — it was Tottenham who ended the season on a high. It was their fourth win over Manchester United this season and a long-awaited moment of redemption.

“This season hasn’t been good at all, but none of us care right now,” said Johnson, wrapped in a Welsh flag after the match. “This is what it’s all about.”

The win was also a milestone for Son Heung-min, who became the first South Korean captain to lead his club to a major European trophy.

Copied