Europa League: Tottenham takes a big step toward the final

It took just 39 seconds. That’s all Brennan Johnson needed, perfectly set up by Richarlison, to open the scoring and set the tempo in this Europa League semi-final first leg. Against a modest Bodo/Glimt side, Tottenham asserted their superiority (3-1) and head into the return leg with a commanding advantage.

Focused and disciplined, Ange Postecoglou’s men left no room for doubt. James Maddison doubled the lead in the 35th minute, finishing off a superb through ball from Pedro Porro that split the Norwegian defense. The third goal came from the penalty spot, coolly converted by Dominic Solanke after Cristian Romero’s foul in the box.

At 3-0, the match looked all but over. Yet Bodo/Glimt refused to give in. Captain Saltnes pulled one back with a deflected strike, rewarding the visitors’ resilience and keeping a faint hope alive.
The only blemish for Spurs: both Maddison and Solanke limped off with apparent injuries. Was it caution or tactical? Postecoglou will know how to manage.

With this composed victory, Tottenham moves closer to a Europa League final where Manchester United—comprehensive 3-0 winners in Bilbao—could be waiting. An all-English final is now firmly on the horizon.

Aliou Toundé |

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