By: Kwame Bediako
Tottenham Hotspur emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Manchester United in Bilbao, thanks to a scrappy first-half goal from Brennan Johnson. The victory ends Spurs’ long-standing trophy drought of over a decade and secures them a coveted spot in next season’s Champions League.
The match was scrappy, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. However, Johnson’s goal in the 42nd minute proved decisive. The ball was bundled into the net following a cross from Pape Sarr, amid a tangle involving both Johnson and United’s Luke Shaw. After a VAR review, the goal was awarded and ultimately settled the contest.
Manchester United pushed for an equaliser in the second half, with Rasmus Højlund missing a golden chance to head home. Spurs defender Micky van de Ven made a stunning goal-line clearance to preserve the lead. Despite United’s pressure, Tottenham held firm to seal a much-needed win.
The triumph is a major morale boost for Spurs, whose Premier League campaign had been underwhelming. They finished 17th, just one place above United in 18th. The Europa League victory offers a silver lining to an otherwise difficult season. For United, the loss adds to a string of setbacks in a campaign marred by inconsistency and poor form.
