‘If it’s so easy’ – Postecoglou challenges critics after reaching Europa League final

Ange Postecoglou praised his Tottenham Hotspur side’s mental strength after they secured their place in the Europa League final with a 2-0 win over Bodo/Glimt on Thursday night.

Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro struck in the second half to cap a controlled performance in freezing conditions.

Tottenham sealed a 5-1 aggregate triumph and booked a showdown with Manchester United in Bilbao later this month.

Postecoglou described the result as a product of precise preparation and tactical clarity, crediting his players for sticking to the plan on a night where pragmatism, not flair, saw them through.

“It’s a difficult place to come,” he said post-match. “They’ve got a great home record. But the lads executed everything we worked on. The staff got them ready, and they delivered.”

Despite Spurs’ domestic inconsistency this season, the Australian brushed off suggestions that their league form undermines the value of a European final appearance.

“There’s this idea going around that it doesn’t count unless you’re top three,” he added.

“If it’s so easy, why don’t the top teams get here every year? This has nothing to do with the Premier League table.

“What does it mean for Tottenham? You tell me. People have said for years this club needs a trophy. Well, here we are.”

While critics have often tied Postecoglou to a rigid attacking identity, he was quick to remind everyone that winning has always come first.

“I love attacking football, but I love winning more,” Postecoglou said. “Tonight was about being streetwise. We never let them get going. That’s a credit to the lads.”

The manager believes this run has showcased his side’s resilience in the face of adversity, especially with the squad heavily depleted by injuries.

“They’ve stuck together,” he said. “They’ve believed in what we’re doing. That’s how we’ve reached a European final.”

He also admitted the achievement was personally meaningful.

“I’ll reflect on it one day,” he said. “For now, I’m just glad to repay the people who’ve supported me – my family, my friends and the fans.”

Spurs will now prepare for their first European final since 2019, with the chance to end a long wait for silverware and shift the club’s narrative under Postecoglou’s leadership.