All that is needed is the return of Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham). Tottenham has successfully advanced to the final of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Europa League (UEL). Tottenham defeated Bodo/Glimt (Norway) 2-0 in the second leg of the semifinals of the 2024-2025 season UEL held at Asmira Stadion in Bodo, Norway on the 9th (Korean time).

After winning the first leg home match 3-1, they also achieved a two-goal victory without conceding in the away match. With a total score of 5-1 over the two legs, Tottenham heads to the final.

The final will take place in Bilbao, Spain. Tottenham's opponent is Manchester United, which advanced by crushing Athletic Bilbao 4-1 on the same day. Manchester United secured a ticket to the final with an aggregate score of 7-1 over the two legs.

Although both teams have struggled in the English Premier League (EPL) this season, they are seeking a final turnaround on the European stage. Tottenham is currently in 16th place, while Manchester United is in 15th place.

If Tottenham beats Manchester United to win the UEL, it will mark the end of a 17-year trophy drought since winning the League Cup in the 2007-2008 season. Moreover, despite their dismal record of 16th place in the Premier League, they could achieve the dramatic result of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League.

For Son Heung-min, who has worn the Tottenham jersey since 2015, it could be a historic moment marking his first career title.

On this day, coach Ange Postecoglou deployed a 4-3-3 formation. Up front were Richarlison, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson, with Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Dejan Kulusevski in the midfield. The defense comprised Destiny Udogie, Mickey van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Pedro Porro, while Guglielmo Vicario defended the goal. Son Heung-min has missed seven consecutive matches due to a foot injury.

Tottenham pressured Bodo from the early stages of the match. With high positional pressure, they blocked the opponent's offensive buildup and took control of the game. Bodo increased their possession but failed to create decisive opportunities.

The first half ended without a score. In the 16th minute, Udogie attempted a low cross from the left side, but it was saved by the goalkeeper, and in the 23rd minute, Porro's curled free kick was also blocked by the opposing goalkeeper. Bodo created several threatening situations, but their finishing was lacking.

In the second half, Bodo made an early substitution, changing their attacking lineup. Tottenham also responded by bringing Mathis Tel on for Richarlison.

The balance was broken in the 18th minute of the second half. Tottenham took the lead. In a corner kick situation, Romero headed the ball down, which Solanke connected with a diving shot to shake the net. The aggregate score became 4-1.

Riding the momentum, Tottenham sealed the victory. In the 24th minute of the second half, Pedro Porro's cross deflected off a defender and went directly into the net. Porro celebrated with a 'dart ceremony,' reminiscent of the sidelined James Maddison.

On this day, Tottenham secured a 2-0 victory over Bodo, booking their place in the final.

[Photo] Tottenham squad ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited)

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