Brennan Johnson Goal Seals Historic Win in Bilbao
Tottenham Hotspur brought their 17-year wait for silverware to an end with a gritty 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday night. Brennan Johnson’s close-range finish just before halftime proved the difference at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, securing Spurs’ first European trophy since 1984.
While the final itself was low on quality and high on tension, it mattered little to the jubilant Spurs fans, thousands of whom packed the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a live screening. As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted into chaos—fans scaled barriers, danced on screens, and turned the pitch into a sea of white shirts.
Celebrations at Home Mirror the Scenes in Spain
Spurs supporters in north London matched the energy of those in Bilbao. With tickets priced at £10 for adults and £5 for under-18s, the club’s home ground hosted thousands of fans for what turned into a night of pure release after years of frustration.
Tears, beers, and flung shirts filled the air as Postecoglou’s men lifted the trophy. The Australian manager’s promise—made back in September—that he wins titles in his second season now rings true.
Postecoglou: “I’m a Winner – We’re Still Building”
The victory was a personal vindication for Ange Postecoglou. Under pressure after a woeful Premier League campaign that sees Spurs sitting 17th, the manager stood firm.
“All I’ve done in my career is win,” Postecoglou said. “This doesn’t complete the job. We’re still building.”
He spoke of a young squad tasting glory for the first time and how that could change the club’s mindset going forward. With a parade planned for Friday, the manager hinted that he’s far from done: “I had one thing in my head when I took this job—win something. We’ve done that now. Now we grow.”
Van de Ven’s Heroics and a Nervy Finish
While Johnson got the goal, defender Micky van de Ven was the defensive hero. His acrobatic goal-line clearance in the second half kept United at bay as the Red Devils pushed for an equaliser.
The match ended after seven tense minutes of stoppage time, with United unable to break down a well-organised Spurs backline.
United Left Empty-Handed—And Out of Europe
Manchester United’s season hit a new low with the defeat. Their only shot at qualifying for the Champions League vanished with the final whistle, leaving them facing a campaign without European football for just the second time in 35 years.
Ruben Amorim, who took charge midseason, admitted he may not stay if the fans or board lose faith.
“I have nothing to show to the fans,” Amorim said. “If they want me out, I’ll go. No drama.”
Roy Keane: “It’s Been the Story All Year”
Pundit Roy Keane didn’t hold back in his post-match assessment, blasting United for lacking fight, depth, and direction.
“They’ve been getting out of jail in Europe all year,” Keane fumed. “If you’re relying on Harry Maguire to save you, you’re in trouble.”
A Night Spurs Fans Won’t Forget
With a Champions League place secured for next season and long-awaited silverware finally in hand, Spurs fans have reason to believe again.
As Postecoglou clutched his medal and looked ahead to Friday’s parade, one thing was clear—this was more than just a win. It was a moment that broke a cycle, lifted a weight, and gave the club something tangible to build on.