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Managers Ruben Amorim and Ange Postecoglou, both facing challenges, are gearing up for an exhilarating all-English Euro final, the first in six years.
Manchester United cruised to a 7-1 aggregate triumph over Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-finals, bolstered by two stunning goals from Mason Mount, along with contributions from Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund.
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In the meantime, Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro led Tottenham to a 2-0 win over Bodo/Glimt, concluding with a 5-1 aggregate, thus paving the way for an all-English clash.
The highly anticipated matchup will take place in Bilbao in 12 days, pitting United’s Amorim against Spurs’ Postecoglou in a thrilling contest.
This final could potentially mark Postecoglou’s last game as speculation looms over his job security, even in the event of a win.
Mason Mount celebrated his achievements: “My first goals at Old Trafford made it a memorable night, one I’ve long awaited.
“Injuries and setbacks have made it challenging since my arrival.
“But I always believed we could achieve something positive, and it came through in the semi-final.
“The team performed exceptionally, and scoring to level it at 1-1 helped us regain composure. I aimed to make an impact on the game.”
His second goal drew comparisons to a classic David Beckham long-range effort. He remarked: “I focused on ‘First touch and shoot’ as I saw the keeper advance.
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“The crowd has been extraordinary, supporting us throughout. We’re excited to return to Bilbao for an unforgettable night, hoping to finish on a high note.”
Both squads have faced disappointing seasons in the Premier League; however, the winner will secure a Champions League spot valued at £100 million.
Man Utd and Spurs on track for £100m winner-takes-all Europa League final despite two of their worst seasons ever
Man Utd ratings vs Bilbao as magnificent Mount powers Red Devils to Europa League final but ineffective Garnacho hooked early
MANCHESTER UNITED nearly secured their final spot in the Europa League a week ago.
Despite a shaky first half, they took control at Old Trafford on Thursday night, completing a comeback 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao.
Mikel Jaureguizar startled the home crowd with his impressive goal at the 30-minute mark.
United appeared to struggle with cohesiveness, raising concerns about a possible collapse.
However, Ruben Amorim’s tactical changes shifted the game’s momentum — Amad Diallo, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount combined beautifully for Mount’s elegant equalizer.
Casemiro added a well-placed header, and Rasmus Hojlund got on the scoresheet with a simple tap-in.
Mount capped off the night with a long-range shot into an empty net. All smiles followed.
Now, United is poised for an all-English showdown against Spurs later this month to salvage their disappointing season.
Bring on Bilbao…
Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Ruben Amorim’s players at Old Trafford…
This guarantees England will have SIX representatives in the next season of Europe’s elite competition.
This unprecedented accomplishment has never before been achieved by any nation in this tournament.
Remarkably, both teams are projected to end up in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Together, they’ve suffered 35 league defeats this season, yet excelled in European competition.
Amorim stated: “I’m already feeling the stress leading up to the final. If we don’t win, it means nothing.”
This will signify Tottenham’s first Euro final since their sorrowful 2-0 Champions League loss to Liverpool in 2019 — the same year Chelsea overcame Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final.
Spurs held a 3-1 advantage from the first leg but comfortably sealed victory that night with goals from Solanke and Porro.
Solanke expressed: “It feels incredible. We’re at a pivotal moment, and now we’re in the final. Just one more match!”
Spanish player Porro added: “We’re ecstatic for our fans — it’s a long journey from London. We earned this.”
Spurs head into the final with the upper hand, having won all three encounters against United this season.
Spurs record vs Man United
Here’s a summary of Spurs’ record against Manchester United this season.
- PL – Man United 0-3 Spurs – Sept 29, 2024
- EFL Cup – Spurs 4-3 Man United – Dec 19, 2024
- PL – Spurs 1-0 Man United – Feb 16, 2025
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