Solanke sends Spurs to Europa League semi-finals

Tottenham Hotspur have booked their place in a European semi-final for the first time since 2019, following a hard-fought 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League. Dominic Solanke was the hero of the night, converting a decisive first-half penalty that ended Frankfurt’s impressive 12-game unbeaten streak in the competition.

Early threat from Frankfurt

The hosts started brightly and almost took the lead early on when Hugo Ekitike was sent through by a stunning 70-metre pass from Kauã Santos. The Frankfurt forward looked destined to score, but Spurs centre-back Micky van de Ven produced a crucial last-ditch challenge to deny him. That moment sparked Tottenham into life. The visitors slowly gained control and came close through Mathys Tel, whose effort forced a smart save from Santos. The breakthrough came shortly after when James Maddison was brought down in the penalty area by Frankfurt’s goalkeeper. Solanke stepped up and calmly slotted home from the spot, scoring his first goal in eleven games and putting Spurs ahead in the tie.

Spurs dig deep to defend the lead

Tottenham faced heavy pressure in the second half as Frankfurt pushed for an equaliser. Farès Chaïbi went closest with a curling free-kick that shaved the outside of the post. Despite the hosts dominating possession, Spurs remained a threat on the counter. Cristian Romero nearly doubled the lead with a header from a Pedro Porro corner. As the clock ticked down, Frankfurt threw everything forward. Chaïbi had one final golden opportunity from close range, but Guglielmo Vicario produced a brilliant reflex save to preserve the clean sheet.

Spurs march on, Frankfurt fall

Tottenham held firm in the closing minutes and celebrated a famous win on German soil. The victory sends them into the Europa League semi-finals, keeping alive hopes of a first European trophy since 1984. There is just one team in between them and the Europa League final. For Frankfurt, the dream of a third Europa League title comes to an end — and so does their remarkable unbeaten run in Europe.