Cristian Romero (27, Tottenham) filled in for Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).

Tottenham won 1-0 against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Europa League quarterfinal second leg away game at Frankfurt Stadium in Frankfurt, Germany, on the 18th.

Tottenham advanced to the semifinals with one win and one draw. In the first leg, Tottenham drew 1-1. Facing a trophy-less crisis this season, Tottenham has continued its hopes in the Europa League, which is its only chance for a title.

Captain Son Heung-min was absent. Son Heung-min remained in England to focus on treatment for a foot injury and did not participate in the German away game.

Romero wore the captain's armband and took the field. Tottenham featured Mathis Tel, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson in a three-man front line. In the 43rd minute of the first half, Dominic Solanke scored the deciding penalty kick to secure the victory in enemy territory.

After the match, Son Heung-min congratulated his teammates through social media, saying, "I’m proud of you! You did really well! Let’s keep going."

As Tottenham achieved a shutout victory, praises for Romero poured in. He was praised for fulfilling his role as a defender and performing well as captain in Son Heung-min's absence.

Football London noted, "Romero showed true leadership. Tottenham displayed stable defense even after James Maddison was substituted due to injury."

Romero expressed joy, stating, "My teammates did well. We showed good performance in a big game. We may not have performed well in the first leg, but we certainly deserved to advance to the semifinals."

Despite the strong performance, rumors persist that Romero could leave Tottenham this summer. Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid are reportedly interested in Romero.

While Romero performed well, the notion that Son Heung-min is now unnecessary makes fans uncomfortable. Tottenham Hotspur News stated, "Tottenham showed it could manage without Son Heung-min. This season, Son Heung-min has only scored seven goals, failing to reach even half of last season’s 17 goals. This suggests significant changes in the summer transfer market," arguing that Son Heung-min is no longer needed.

Some fans also reacted, saying, "We can win without Son Heung-min!" and "Is it time for Tottenham to let go of Son Heung-min?" They expressed sorrow, noting that "young players are showing better performances without Son Heung-min."

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