Tottenham’s Europa League progress eases pressure on Postecoglou | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night secured their place in the semi-finals of the Europa League.

The result also bought Ange Postecoglou some much-needed credit with a fanbase that had started to question his leadership.

Dominic Solanke’s penalty just before half-time settled a tense quarter-final second leg in Germany, where Spurs showed discipline and resilience against tough opponents.

The goal came after a VAR intervention – something Postecoglou has previously expressed frustration with – but this time the technology worked in his favour.

Frankfurt goalkeeper Kaua Santos clattered into James Maddison as the midfielder attempted to reach a chipped pass.

After initially escaping punishment, the referee reversed his decision at the monitor. Solanke made no mistake from the spot.

Postecoglou praised the courage of Maddison, who had to be substituted after the incident, calling it ‘unbelievable courage’ and suggesting the challenge should have warranted a red card.

“He knew he was going to get a pretty severe knock but put his body on the line,” the Australian said after the game.

“I’m super proud of the lads. In such a big game, they delivered a performance and it means we’re through to a semi-final.”

The Australian has endured a difficult first season in charge, and his remarks in September about typically winning trophies in his second year have since loomed awkwardly.

But this performance – particularly the maturity and control shown across both legs – suggests Tottenham still have something to play for.

Postecoglou admitted that injuries have had a significant impact, but he pointed to the togetherness of the group as a key factor in reaching this stage of the competition.

His players showed that unity in Frankfurt, withstanding a second half onslaught from the home team. Guglielmo Vicario made a key save late on to preserve the lead.

Postecoglou was quick to downplay talk of destiny or turning points but acknowledged the significance of what his players achieved.

“We’re in the semi-final,” he added. “We’ll play a difficult opponent, but we’ve given ourselves a chance. That’s all you can ask for at this point in the season.”

For all the noise surrounding his future, Postecoglou remains unwavering. “I’m the same manager today that I was yesterday,” he said.

“For me, it’s always about the dressing room. Do the players believe? Do the staff believe? That’s much more important.”

On the evidence of Thursday night, they still do.