Ange Postecoglou has etched his name in Australian football history as the first male Australian manager to reach a major European competition final. His Tottenham Hotspur side clinched a 2-0 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League semi-final second leg in Norway, securing a 5-1 aggregate triumph. Spurs will now face Manchester United in an all-English final in Bilbao on May 22, 2025.
Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro scored in the second half to seal the win, with Cristian Romero’s towering header setting up Solanke’s goal. Despite a torrid Premier League season, where Spurs sit 16th with a club-record-equalling 19 losses, Postecoglou’s European success could safeguard his position by delivering a coveted title and a Champions League spot.
Manchester United, also struggling in 15th with a record 16 Premier League defeats, overcame Athletic Bilbao 4-1 in their semi-final second leg (7-1 aggregate). Mason Mount’s brace, alongside goals from Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund, powered United’s comeback.
“This is a massive moment for Australian coaching,” said ex-Socceroos captain Craig Foster on Stan Sport. “Ange has broken barriers, and reaching a European final is immense for Australian football.”
The final marks the second all-English Europa League decider in six years, following Chelsea’s 2019 win over Arsenal. Spurs have dominated United this season, winning all three prior encounters, but United’s Ruben Amorim warned: “If we don’t win the final, it means nothing.”
A title would salvage dismal domestic campaigns for both clubs, with the added prize of Champions League qualification.
Ange Postecoglou discussed Tottenham's upcoming match against Crystal Palace on May 11, 2025, and their Europa League final against Manchester United on May 21. He's optimistic despite a tough season, noting the final's historical significance. Key defenders may miss the Palace game due to fatigue, but Son Heung-min might play, while Lucas Bergvall is unlikely for the final. Postecoglou praised Yves Bissouma’s resilience and denied singing with chairman Daniel Levy. This final marks his 100th game as manager and the third all-English Europa League final in history.
Stay updated with the latest news from Greece and around the world on greekcitytimes.com.
Contact our newsroom to share your updates, stories, photos, or videos. Follow GCT on Google News and Apple News.
