Spurs defeat United to clinch first European title after four decades

Tottenham Hotspur secured their first European trophy since 1984 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday night. 

The match took place at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, delivering an intense and tightly contested encounter.

The winning goal came just before halftime in the 42nd minute. Spurs’ Pape Matar Sarr delivered a cross into the box that was inadvertently deflected into the net by Manchester United defender Luke Shaw.

The own goal was officially credited to Brennan Johnson due to his involvement in the build-up.

Despite few clear-cut chances, both teams battled fiercely, creating a tense atmosphere throughout the game.

Manchester United dominated possession but struggled to convert it into clear opportunities, coming closest when Rasmus Hojlund’s header nearly equalized before being cleared acrobatically by Micky van de Ven on the line, and a 97th-minute save by Vicario from a Luke Shaw header.

Despite the match’s lack of fluidity, the significance for both clubs and their supporters remained high, with Spurs aiming for European silverware and United seeking a third consecutive season with a major trophy.

The victory not only ends Tottenham’s 17-year trophy drought but also secures their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.