Ange Postecoglou has made football history, becoming the first male Greek Australian coach to lead a team to a major European final after guiding Tottenham Hotspur to a 2-0 victory over Bodø/Glimt in the Europa League semi-final.
Spurs cruised to a 5-1 aggregate win in Norway, with second-half goals from Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro ensuring safe passage to the final, where they will face Manchester United in an all-English showdown in Bilbao on May 22 (AEST).
“Couldn’t be prouder of the lads,” Postecoglou said post-match. “We knew it was a difficult place to come. We’re aware of the record they have here, the pitch. I think the lads handled it well. Excited, we’re in a final.”
The achievement comes amid intense pressure on the Greek Australian manager following a troubled Premier League season for Spurs, who sit 16th on the table. But Europa League success could offer redemption and secure a Champions League spot.
Manchester United secured their spot in the final with a 4-1 second-leg win over Athletic Bilbao, progressing 7-1 on aggregate.
This marks the second all-English Europa League final in six years, following Chelsea’s 2019 win over Arsenal. Notably, Tottenham have beaten United three times this season.
Source: nine.com.au
