Spurs with Hamlet's dilemma - Europe is all they have
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 01.05.25. | 16:35
Ange Postecoglou has a chance to lead his team to the final, which would mean a lot despite a disastrous season
Tottenham's full focus at the end of the season is on the Europa League, having underperformed in all other competitions. It remains their only hope of lifting a trophy—something manager Ange Postecoglou practically “promised” at the start of the campaign by stating he always wins silverware in his second season at a club. The Australian of Greek descent is under immense pressure to fulfill that statement, and failure to do so will almost certainly cost him his job after a largely disappointing season.
Under the lights in Lilywhite 🤍
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 1, 2025
It's semi-final matchday in N17 👊 pic.twitter.com/Rbs12MozEQ
The Europa League could serve as redemption for a lackluster campaign, and realistically, Spurs are one of the strongest teams left in the tournament. They also benefited from a favorable draw, as Athletic Bilbao and Manchester United are both on the opposite side of the bracket.
Tottenham performed well in the group stage, finishing fourth overall. In the Round of 16, they came from behind to beat AZ Alkmaar, and in a hard-fought quarter-final, they edged out Eintracht Frankfurt.
"I've heard people say it's the equivalent of Man Utd winning the FA Cup. No it ain't."
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) April 30, 2025
Ange Postecoglou on the importance of Spurs' quest for the Europa League trophy ⤵ pic.twitter.com/Ul86Jgwk0Z
As for the Norwegian champions, they are the biggest surprise of this season’s Europa League. They had a decent showing in the group stage but only truly hit their stride in the knockout rounds. First, they came from behind to defeat Twente in the Round of 32, then pulled off a shock win against Olympiacos. Their most stunning upset came in the quarter-final, where they eliminated Lazio after a penalty shootout.
The hero of that victory was Russian goalkeeper Nikita Haikin, who saved three penalties. The “Yellow Horde” will once again need a stellar performance from their 29-year-old shot-stopper to get a positive result in London. Both sides are struggling with absences—Tottenham are dealing with injuries to Son and Dragusin, while the visitors will be without Berg, Evjen, and Helmersen due to suspension, as well as Vete and Skeidi through injury.
Bodo/Glimt has the 6th lowest squad value in the Europa League, yet they are now in the semi-finals. This is not a fairytale or a matter of luck. This success is the result of smart planning, Kjetil Knutsen’s modern and flexible football philosophy, and a team built on discipline… pic.twitter.com/jafVflMYjI
— Eray Can Gencer (@ErayGencR) April 24, 2025
Tottenham are clear favorites and must prove it. A strong showing at home will be crucial, especially since Bodo/Glimt have struggled on the road in this competition. Expect an attacking approach from Spurs, who will likely aim for a win with at least a two-goal margin.
UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE - SEMI-FINALS
First leg
Thursday
22:00: (2.05) Ath.Bilbao (3.40) Man.Utd. (4.00)
22:00: (1.30) Tottenham (6.50) Bodo (10.0)
***odds are subject to change***
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