Tottenham reach Europa League semi-finals with vital win over Frankfurt

Solanke’s penalty secures Tottenham’s place in Europa League final four amid pressure on Postecoglou.

Dominic Solanke of Tottenham Hotspur takes a penalty during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 quarter-final second leg match against Eintracht Frankfurt at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, on April 17, 2025. Photo by Sathire Kelpa/Eurasia Sport Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Tottenham reach Europa League semi-finals with a determined 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday, a result that not only lifted them into the final four of the competition but also eased pressure on manager Ange Postecoglou after a turbulent domestic campaign. The match offered a rare glimpse of composure and control from Spurs, with Dominic Solanke’s penalty shortly before halftime proving decisive.

After a season marked by disappointment and instability, this Europa League quarter-final second leg provided a much-needed spark. Postecoglou, whose job was reportedly on the line depending on Thursday’s outcome, watched his side deliver a disciplined performance away from home — something they have struggled to do across all competitions this season.

For Tottenham supporters, the win brought hope after weeks of pessimism. It also marked one of the few times since December that the squad looked united and confident in the approach laid out by their manager.

Postecoglou: “The players have never lost belief”

Ange Postecoglou stood defiant in his post-match interview, asserting that his philosophy never wavered despite the outside noise. “I’m the same coach that I was yesterday,” he said. “The players have never lost belief. People like to mock and diminish my achievements, but I’ll leave that there.”

His comments reflected both relief and quiet vindication. The Australian coach has come under intense scrutiny during Spurs’ worst league season in decades, with fans and pundits questioning his tactics, squad management, and ability to guide the club through a critical period of transition.

And yet, as Tottenham advance in Europe, Postecoglou has managed to defy the critics — at least for now. The win over Frankfurt, earned with a composed and tactically mature performance, may not erase the season’s troubles, but it has bought him time and renewed belief.

Solanke ends goal drought with decisive strike

Dominic Solanke’s first goal since January arrived at a crucial time. The former Bournemouth striker, signed to lead Tottenham’s attacking line in place of the injured Richarlison and inconsistent Son Heung-min, calmly converted from the spot after a VAR review confirmed a handball inside the box.

“It’s been a difficult season for all of us,” Solanke said after the match. “But now we’ve got a chance to go on and win something, which would be magnificent. On our day we can beat anyone. I think this is what we live for — these big games and big moments.”

Solanke’s contribution went beyond his goal. He held up play effectively, pressed Frankfurt’s backline, and provided a consistent outlet up front — a contrast to Tottenham’s frequently disjointed attacking displays this season.

Vicario praises team spirit and Postecoglou

Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who made two crucial saves in the second half to preserve Spurs’ lead, highlighted the squad’s unity. “Everyone has suffered a lot this season. It’s been a tough one, but we’re still alive and we want to fight for something special,” Vicario said.

“The job is not done, but it’s a big win for Tottenham Hotspur — for everyone, the boss, us players, the staff, and the fans. We are very proud of ourselves and what we showed.”

Vicario’s comments underline a theme that has emerged from the squad in recent weeks: despite media speculation and poor domestic form, there remains belief within the dressing room that the team is building toward something better.

Tottenham set for semi-final clash with Bodo/Glimt

The path to a potential European trophy won’t get easier for Tottenham, but their semi-final draw offers a real opportunity. Spurs will face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, who have been the surprise package of the tournament, having knocked out Marseille and Roma en route to the final four.

While many would still consider Tottenham the stronger side on paper, Bodo/Glimt’s tenacity, work ethic, and tactical organization make them a dangerous opponent. Still, with Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao on the other side of the bracket, Spurs may feel their route to the final is manageable — if they can maintain composure and continue to play with the belief shown in Frankfurt.

Spurs' trophy drought could end

A potential Europa League title would be Tottenham’s first major trophy since their League Cup triumph in 2008. That drought has haunted the club through several generations of players and managers — from Mauricio Pochettino’s near-misses to Jose Mourinho’s aborted final in 2021.

For players like Solanke, Vicario, and younger talents like Destiny Udogie and Pape Matar Sarr, this Europa League campaign offers a chance to write their names into club history.

And for Postecoglou, it may be the validation he needs to continue his project in North London beyond this season.

The bigger picture for Tottenham

Tottenham’s domestic campaign has been nothing short of disastrous. Slipping down the Premier League table and flirting with mid-table mediocrity, the club has endured humiliating defeats, early cup exits, and widespread fan unrest. Key injuries, inconsistent performances, and tactical confusion have all contributed.

Thursday’s win, while only one game, offered a reprieve — and a glimpse of what might be possible when the system works. It also strengthens the argument that Postecoglou deserves more time to implement his ideas.

Should Spurs go on to win the Europa League, they would not only secure silverware but also qualify directly for next season’s Champions League, bypassing the complex Premier League top-four battle that now seems out of reach.

Postecoglou’s job still under scrutiny

Despite the triumph, Ange Postecoglou is not out of the woods yet. Tottenham’s board, led by chairman Daniel Levy, is known for its pragmatism and impatience with underperformance. The coming weeks — including a tricky Premier League run-in and a tough semi-final — could still decide his fate.

But for now, Postecoglou has weathered the storm. He has delivered a landmark win, quieted his detractors, and reenergized a squad that looked lost just weeks ago.

What comes next

Tottenham face Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League semi-finals next month. Between now and then, their domestic form will remain under the microscope. Can Postecoglou build on Thursday’s result? Can Solanke continue to lead the line? Will Spurs find the consistency that has eluded them all season?

For Tottenham fans, Thursday’s win may mark the turning point they’ve been waiting for. After months of doubt, frustration, and underachievement, the dream of European glory — and a new era under Postecoglou — remains alive.

And that alone is worth celebrating.