Tottenham snatch Europa League title in gritty triumph over Man Utd

The win secured UEFA Champions League qualification for Spurs, despite their dismal 17th-place standing in the Premier League, marking a historic moment for manager Ange Postecoglou in what he called the toughest season of his career.

"It's been the hardest thing I've ever done, no question," Postecoglou said after the match. "This club has seen world-class coaches and players, yet they've never had a night like this. I knew the challenge coming in, but I believed we could do it."

The final, a tense clash between two struggling English giants, hinged on a 42nd-minute own goal by United's Luke Shaw. Spurs' Pape Matar Sarr whipped in a dangerous cross, and Brennan Johnson's touch at the near post forced Shaw to inadvertently turn the ball into his own net.

It was United's 31st time conceding the opening goal this season, a Premier League high across all competitions, exposing their defensive frailties under manager Ruben Amorim.

Spurs' defence was far from flawless. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario struggled with a routine free-kick from Bruno Fernandes, but Micky van de Ven's acrobatic clearance denied Rasmus Hojlund a certain equalizer. United pressed, with Fernandes missing a diving header and Alejandro Garnacho forcing a sharp save from Vicario, but Spurs held firm to claim the trophy.

Postecoglou, marking his 100th match in charge, emphasized the significance of the triumph for his young squad. "We've got a really young group," he said. "They've felt success now, and they'll want it again. This can be a platform to build something special."

Addressing their league struggles, he added, "People focus on our 20 defeats, but they miss what we're building. This win shows we're on the right path."

Recent posts on X from Tottenham's official account hailed the victory, with one stating, "European glory is ours! Spurs are back in the Champions League!" Fans echoed the sentiment, with one user posting, "Ange has delivered when it mattered most. This is just the start."

Dismissing rumours of resignation, Postecoglou reaffirmed his commitment. "I'm as hungry as ever," he said. "This group has climbed the mountain. They know what it takes now."

For United, the loss ended their unbeaten Europa League run in their 15th match, deepening the scrutiny on Amorim's faltering campaign. Spurs, meanwhile, celebrated their 150th European victory, a milestone that signals a new chapter for the North Londoners.