Tottenham Hotspur are into the semi-finals of the Europa League after a gritty 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany, with Dominic Solanke’s first-half penalty proving decisive.
After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Spurs were under pressure to deliver; and did just enough to keep their European hopes alive.
Frankfurt dominated possession for large spells, but it was a costly error from goalkeeper Kaua Santos just before halftime that changed the game. Santos clattered into James Maddison while trying to claim a long ball, initially escaping punishment; until VAR intervened.
Referee Davide Massa reversed his decision and pointed to the spot, also booking the Frankfurt keeper. Solanke stepped up and calmly slotted his effort down the middle, giving Spurs the lead.
Maddison, who tried to continue after the collision, was replaced in stoppage time by Dejan Kulusevski-a change that saw Spurs lose their grip in midfield as Frankfurt pushed hard after the break.
The hosts piled on the pressure, but Tottenham remained dangerous on the counter and from set-pieces. Cristian Romero and Rodrigo Bentancur both missed headed chances, while Guglielmo Vicario made a stunning close-range save to deny Fares Chaibi.
Rasmus Kristensen, on loan from Leeds, squandered Frankfurt’s best opportunity, dragging a shot wide with the goal at his mercy late on.
Despite being second-best in possession, Spurs held firm; and now await a semi-final clash with either Athletic Bilbao or their fierce rivals Manchester United.
