In a dramatic finale that will be etched into the history books, Tottenham Hotspur have ended their 17-year wait for a major trophy by defeating Manchester United 1-0 to lift the Europa League. Brennan Johnson’s first-half strike was the difference in a tense, tactical battle in Bilbao, securing not only the silverware but also a coveted spot in next season’s Champions League.
For Manchester United, the defeat caps a dismal season that will see them record their lowest-ever Premier League finish, heaping immense pressure on manager Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils’ campaign ends without any consolation, leaving more questions than answers about the future at Old Trafford.
Here is the Baji live breakdown of the player performances from a historic night in Spain.
Tottenham Player Ratings
Guglielmo Vicario – 7
A tale of redemption between the posts. Vicario’s heart must have been in his mouth after an early stumble gifted a chance to Rasmus Hojlund, but he was bailed out by a miraculous goal-line clearance. He grew into the game immensely, making two crucial late saves to deny Alejandro Garnacho and Luke Shaw, proving his mettle when it mattered most.
Pedro Porro – 7
A performance of two distinct halves. In the first, Porro was a creative force, whipping dangerous balls into the box with his wand-like right foot. After the break, he transformed into a defensive stalwart, diligently protecting his flank and helping to see out the famous victory.
Cristian Romero – 9
A colossal figure at the heart of the Spurs defense. The Argentine World Cup winner was imperious, demonstrating exceptional awareness and leadership to marshal his side’s resolute low block. He made more clearances than any other player and even won the psychological battle against Harry Maguire. His value to this Tottenham project is immeasurable.
Micky van de Ven – 8
If Romero was the brains, Van de Ven was the breathtaking athleticism. While rock-solid throughout, his legacy from this final will be defined by one incredible, acrobatic goal-line clearance to deny Hojlund an almost certain equalizer. A moment of pure defensive genius.
Micky van de Ven’s incredible athleticism preserved Tottenham’s lead with a historic goal-line clearance.
Destiny Udogie – 7
Shook off a nervy start to become a dominant force. After being turned inside-out by Amad Diallo early on, the Italian fullback adapted superbly. His game was epitomized by a perfectly timed tackle in the box to snuff out a dangerous United opportunity, followed immediately by a surging run to create a chance for 2-0. Exhausting and exemplary work.
Yves Bissouma – 7
The unsung hero in the engine room. Bissouma was a disruptive force, winning the second-most duels on the pitch (behind Romero) and providing the defensive steel that allowed Spurs to control the tempo without dominating possession.
Rodrigo Bentancur – 7
Alongside Bissouma, Bentancur was the perfect water-carrier. He diligently performed the unglamorous tasks, closing down spaces and ensuring Bruno Fernandes had no room to operate. A selfless and crucial performance.
Pape Sarr – 7
Stepped up magnificently in the absence of creative stars James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski. It was his superb, inviting cross that led to the game’s only goal. While his ball retention was occasionally loose, his contribution where it counted made all the difference.
Brennan Johnson – 7
The match-winner. Johnson terrorized Luke Shaw from the opening whistle, and his goal—a classic, late-arriving run at the back post—was a move straight from the Ange Postecoglou training ground. He worked tirelessly in both directions, fulfilling his defensive duties with equal commitment.
Brennan Johnson’s first-half winner secured a historic victory for Tottenham and Champions League football for next season.
Dominic Solanke – 7
A frustrating yet effective night for the forward. Solanke’s off-the-ball movement and relentless running stretched the United defense and created space for others, even if he saw little of the ball himself. He should have sealed the game on a counter-attack but played a key role in the overall tactical plan.
Richarlison – 7
A shock selection over captain Heung-Min Son that was entirely justified. While not a major attacking threat, his selfless work rate and defensive discipline were outstanding. He battled tirelessly against Noussair Mazraoui and was eventually substituted due to injury, a testament to his total commitment to the cause.
Richarlison’s surprising selection was vindicated by his tireless and selfless performance up front for Spurs.
Tottenham Substitutes
Heung-Min Son – 5
The captain’s cameo off the bench sadly highlighted why he might have been benched. He looked off the pace and was even beaten in a foot race by Patrick Dorgu, raising questions about his sharpness after a long season.
Kevin Danso – 6
Brought on to add defensive solidity, the centre-back did his job effectively, making one vital clearance from an Amad cross to help preserve the clean sheet.
Archie Gray and Djed Spence – n/a
Introduced too late to influence the game.
Manchester United Player Ratings
Andre Onana – 5
A performance riddled with indecision. Onana’s reluctance to command his area or come for crosses permeated nervousness throughout the United backline. While not solely at fault for the goal, his inconsistent season hit another low point on the biggest stage.
Leny Yoro – 6
A decent outing for the young defender, who wasn’t helped by the uncertainty behind him. He was nearly caught out by Spurs’ aggressive press and went close to scoring with a second-half header. A passable performance in a failing team.
Harry Maguire – 6
United’s best player in the first half… until he wasn’t. Maguire was solid, brave, and a threat from set-pieces until he inexplicably switched off, letting the ball bounce in the area in the buildup to Johnson’s goal. He was visibly rattled by Romero’s presence thereafter.
Luke Shaw – 4
A night to forget for the experienced left-back. Beaten repeatedly by Johnson in the early exchanges, he was eventually culpable for the goal, failing to clear the danger as the ball ricocheted off him and into the net. A performance that highlighted how much United miss the injured Lisandro Martinez.
Noussair Mazraoui – 6
One of United’s more reliable performers. He dealt well with Richarlison in the air and won an impressive 12 duels. It was harsh to see him substituted as United chased the game.
Casemiro – 5
The Brazilian’s decline was starkly evident. While he flew into a few characteristic big tackles, his overall influence was minimal. The gulf between his peak years at Real Madrid and his current status was painfully clear.
Bruno Fernandes – 4
A shockingly anonymous performance from the captain. Completely nullified by Spurs’ midfield trio, his frustration boiled over into petulant fouls. He then spurned a glorious, headed chance to equalize in the second half. A desperately poor showing in a game that demanded leadership.
Bruno Fernandes cut a frustrated figure and missed a golden opportunity to bring Manchester United level.
Patrick Dorgu – 5
The youngster showed some promise going forward but was often caught out of position defensively. His lack of communication for Tottenham‘s goal will be a tough but valuable learning experience.
Amad Diallo – 6
United’s brightest spark. The Ivorian winger was a constant menace to Destiny Udogie, creating United’s best chances, including the cross for Hojlund’s big opportunity. A rare positive in a bleak season under Amorim.
Mason Mount – 5
Another opportunity wasted. Mount often seemed to be on a different wavelength to his teammates, hindering more than helping United’s attacking flow. He was rightly substituted after offering little, casting further doubt on his future at the club.
Rasmus Hojlund – 5
The Danish striker’s hold-up play was actually quite good, but he was starved of service where it matters most—in the box. He will rue not converting his big chance, brilliantly denied by Van de Ven. His alarming goal drought continues to be a major concern.
Rasmus Hojlund’s struggles in front of goal continued, symbolizing Manchester United’s attacking woes this season.
Manchester United Substitutes
Joshua Zirkzee – 5
Brought on to provide a spark, the Dutchman was virtually invisible, managing just six touches and a yellow card in his 20-minute appearance.
Alejandro Garnacho – 6
Injected immediate energy and forced a good save from Vicario. His late introduction begs the question: why didn’t he start?
Kobbie Mainoo and Diogo Dalot – n/a
Limited time to make an impact.
Tottenham Crowned Europa League Champions: A Historic Night in Bilbao for Baji live
This victory marks a monumental shift for Tottenham Hotspur, propelling them back into Europe’s elite and finally burying the ghost of their trophy drought. For Manchester United, the inquest begins. The performance in Bilbao was a microcosm of their season: disjointed, lacking cutting edge, and ultimately disappointing. The pressure on Ruben Amorim is now immense, and a significant summer overhaul looks inevitable.
What did you make of the final? Were Tottenham deserving winners? What must Manchester United do next? Share your thoughts with the Baji live community below
