Under pressure Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou commented that Thursday’s 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, which secured their place in the semi-finals of the Europa League, demonstrated that his team still had faith in his approach.
The club’s worst league campaign in years had left Postecoglou facing intense scrutiny, with speculation about his potential dismissal depending on the outcome of Thursday’s match.
However, in a rare display of resilience this season, Spurs managed to maintain control of the match after taking the lead just before the interval thanks to a penalty from Dominic Solanke.
Despite having referenced his possible exit in recent weeks, Postecoglou asserted that he and his squad are resolute in their belief that they are making progress.
“Our supporters have endured a challenging period. I hope this gives them something to look forward to,” Postecoglou remarked following the match.
“I’m the same coach I was yesterday. The players have never wavered in their belief. There are those who may try to belittle my successes, but I’ll let that be.”
Tottenham is set to face Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt in the semi-finals, with Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao competing on the other side of the draw.
Goalscorer Solanke, who hadn’t scored since January, expressed to reporters: “It’s been a tough season for everyone, but now we have the opportunity to achieve something great, which would be incredible.”
“On our day, we can beat anyone. These are the moments we thrive on; the significant matches and occasions.”
Solanke affirmed that his side was “100 percent” capable of winning the tournament, which would end their wait for silverware since lifting the League Cup in 2008.
Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario echoed the sentiment, stating that the outcome illustrated the team’s unity and support for their manager.
“Everyone has endured a lot this season. It has been a difficult one, but we are still in the fight and eager to achieve something special,” he said.
“The job isn’t finished yet, but this is a significant victory for Tottenham Hotspur, for everyone involved— the boss, the players, the staff, and the fans.”
“We take great pride in ourselves and the performance we delivered.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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