Tottenham kept their Europa League dream alive with a 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, securing a 2-1 aggregate win and booking a place in the semi-finals.
Dominic Solanke’s first-half penalty proved decisive at the Deutsche Bank Park, setting up a final-four showdown with Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, who advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Lazio. Spurs will now aim to reach their first European final since their 2019 Champions League heartbreak against Liverpool.
With pressure mounting amid a disappointing Premier League season and speculation surrounding Ange Postecoglou’s future, Tottenham delivered a composed performance rarely seen this campaign.
After early chances for Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike and Spurs’ Mathys Tel, a controversial moment changed the game. Frankfurt goalkeeper Kaua Santos collided heavily with James Maddison in the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Solanke, without a goal since January, stepped up and confidently converted to give Spurs the lead in front of Frankfurt’s intimidating Nordwestkurve.
The result may offer a lifeline for Postecoglou, whose tenure has come under fire. The Australian manager praised his backline after the win.
“Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are a big part of what we do. I thought the whole back four were magnificent. Ekitike is a top striker, and they kept him quiet.”
Postecoglou also paid tribute to the club’s supporters.
“Our fans have been through a tough time. Hopefully, this gives them something to look forward to.”
The defeat ends Frankfurt’s hopes of reclaiming Europa League glory, having lifted the trophy in Seville just three years ago. Club captain Robin Koch called the elimination “extremely bitter,” while sporting director Markus Kroesche questioned the penalty decision.
“You don’t need to give that. It’s frustrating that we went behind because of that.”
Despite the disappointment, Frankfurt remain third in the Bundesliga and are on track for their best league finish since the mid-1990s. Spurs, meanwhile, march on to the semi-finals with renewed belief and a shot at redemption.
