In a dramatic turn of events, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have booked their spots in the UEFA Europa League final, setting up an all-English showdown only one match away from UEFA Champions League glory.
Despite stumbling in the Premier League, both clubs found form in Europe’s second-tier competition. United dismantled Athletic Bilbao 4-1 at Old Trafford, sealing a 7-1 aggregate victory. Across Europe, Tottenham clinched a 2-0 win at Bodo/Glimt, cruising to a 5-1 aggregate success.
This marks the second time in six years that two English sides contest the Europa League final, recalling Chelsea’s triumph over Arsenal in 2019. For both teams, the final on the global stage offers a chance to rewrite their season narratives.
“If we don’t win the final, it means nothing for us,” said United coach Ruben Amorim. “It’s hard to describe what it’s like to be manager of this club. You want to give the fans something, because we’ve been so disappointing in the Premier League.”
Mason Mount sparked United’s comeback against Bilbao, netting twice after the break. Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund also found the net as United overturned a first-half deficit. For Spurs, clinical finishes and a rock-solid defense underpinned their victory in Norway.
Football fans worldwide now await the final, where one game will crown Europa League champions and hand a coveted Champions League berth.
Key Stats:
- Manchester United: 7-1 aggregate vs Athletic Bilbao
- Tottenham Hotspur: 5-1 aggregate vs Bodo/Glimt
- Second all-English final since 2019
Reference(s):
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur reach Europa League final
cgtn.com
