Tottenham Hotspur claimed their first major trophy in over a decade after edging Manchester United 1-0 in a scrappy UEFA Europa League final, a contest many had branded the worst European final in recent memory.
But for Spurs and their long-suffering fans, style mattered little—only the silverware did.
The only goal came in the 42nd minute, when Spurs forward Brennan Johnson pounced on a loose delivery from the lift with his attempted flick bouncing off the arm of an unfortunate Luke Shaw to catch Andre Onana helpless in goal.
Tottenham, who sit 17th in the Premier League table—just one place behind United—delivered a performance that was more about grit than flair.
They dug deep in a nervy second half as United pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Ange Postecoglou’s men stood firm.
Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario made a series of crucial saves, while defenders Van De Ven.and Romero stood like rocks in front of him.
For manager Postecoglou, the triumph brought vindication after months of pressure and ridicule.
During the summer, the Australian boldly claimed he “always wins something in his second season”—a remark many mocked as Tottenham’s campaign unravelled in the league.
But Postecoglou remained composed and insisted that something had to give.
In September, he doubled down on the statement, telling reporters: “I'll correct myself—I don't usually win things, I always win things in my second year. Nothing's changed. I've said it now. I don't say things unless I believe them.”
True to his words, Spurs have gotten one over North London rivals Arsenal.
Manchester United, meanwhile, leave the Aviva Stadium with more questions than answers.
Reuben Amorim, under intense scrutiny after a dismal domestic season, may struggle to survive this latest blow. His team dominated possession but looked toothless in attack and shaky at the back.
Spurs fans, who have endured years of near misses and managerial churn, finally have a moment to celebrate.
The club’s last major trophy had been the League Cup in 2008. Now, with European silverware secured, Tottenham end a long wait and offer a glimmer of redemption in an otherwise turbulent season.