Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) has finally quenched his long thirst. After 15 years since his debut in the European stage, Son Heung-min, who faced numerous disappointments on the brink of victory, has finally cradled his first club trophy, inscribing a pivotal chapter in his career.

Tottenham defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the UEFA Europa League final for the 2024-2025 season held at San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, on the 22nd (Korean time). After taking the lead with an own goal from the opponent in the 42nd minute of the first half, they maintained it until the end, reaching the top of European competitions.

This victory was a significant moment in the history of the Tottenham club. After 17 years without a trophy since winning the League Cup in the 2007-2008 season, Tottenham has finally ended its long drought and recorded its third Europa League victory (1971-72, 1983-84, 2024-25) in European competitions. At the same time, they secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the next season.

The match held special weight for Son Heung-min as well. Starting his professional career at Hamburger SV in Germany in 2010, he joined Tottenham in 2015 after stints at Bayer Leverkusen and has been a key forward for the team ever since. Despite numerous opportunities on prestigious stages, he had finished as a runner-up many times. From finishing second in the Premier League (2016-17), to being the runner-up in the Champions League (2018-19), and League Cup runner-up (2020-21), he faced many challenges but always fell short by one step.

His only victory record was the gold medal at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian Games. This Europa League victory is the first trophy Son Heung-min has lifted in his club career and he became the second Korean player to win in this competition, including the UEFA Cup era. Former coach Cha Bum-kun previously won the UEFA Cup with Frankfurt in 1980 and 1988.

Ahead of the final, there was great interest in Son Heung-min's participation status. He was recovering from a recent foot injury and tested his condition during matches against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa, but ultimately, coach Ange Postecoglou decided to leave Son Heung-min off the starting lineup and kept him on the bench.

In the 67th minute of the second half, Son Heung-min entered the pitch in place of Richarlison. Although he did not register a direct attacking point, his trademark agile movements and active dedication brought vigor to the team. In the 81st minute, he attempted a shot during a counterattack but was blocked by the opposing defense, and in the 84th minute, he took a free kick, contributing to the attacking flow.

Tottenham, who took the lead with an own goal in the first half, fended off Manchester United's onslaught and maintained their lead until the final whistle. When the final whistle blew, Son Heung-min dashed from the bench to embrace his teammates, sharing the joy of victory. He then draped the Korean flag over his shoulder and slowly walked to the trophy, lifting the championship cup with both hands.

Son Heung-min's eyes were glistening with moisture. Having worn the captain's armband for two years, he has steadfastly held his ground amid injuries and the team's struggles, making this victory more than just a trophy. Throughout the match and even after the victory, Son Heung-min roamed the pitch as a representative leader of the team.

This trophy not only fulfilled Son Heung-min's long-standing desire but also lifted the heavy shadow hanging over the entire Tottenham team.

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