1-0 Win against Man United
Tottenham Hotspur ended their lengthy trophy drought by winning the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, with a historic 1-0 victory over Manchester United at the $64,992-capacity San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. The only goal of the game came in the 42nd minute when Brennan Johnson latched onto a deflected cross. Spurs became European champions for the first time since 1984.
Despite Manchester United having more of the ball than Tottenham Hotspur in the second half, they could not find a way past Tottenham Hotspur’s resilient defence, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario made plenty of saves to ensure his side remained ahead.
After the game, analysts were critical of the run of play, some going so far as to call it one of the dullest European finals ever played. Unbeknownst to most, post-match tensions boiled over as Harry Maguire (Manchester United) and Cristian Romero (Tottenham) were embroiled in a fiery confrontation, indicative of the match’s emotions and expectations. Once more, Tottenham Hotspur hadn’t just finally claimed some silverware, but they also will now effectively play next season in the UEFA Champions League after a challenging domestic campaign.
Also read: Manchester United Sacks 200 Staff After Europa League Final Defeat to Spurs
Historical Rivalry: Man United vs Tottenham
Manchester United have faced Tottenham Hotspur over 190 times in competitive matches. Over the years, the rivalry has produced phenomenal goals, dramatic comebacks, and historic happenings.
Head-to-Head (as of May 2025):
Matches played: 197
Manchester United Wins: 95
Tottenham Hotspur Wins: 54
Draws: 48
Noteworthy Matches:
United 5-2 Spurs (2009): A memorable comeback from 2-0 down at halftime.
Spurs 6-1 United (2020): A shocking performance at Old Trafford under José Mourinho.
FA Cup Semifinal (2018): United beat Spurs 2-1 at Wembley to reach the final.
2024-25 Premier League Performance
Both clubs have disappointed in the Premier League this season. What was once a race for the top four has turned into a struggle for respect and redemption.
Premier League Table – As of May 20, 2025:
Key Stats:
Manchester United:
Manager: Rúben Amorim
Top Scorer: Marcus Rashford (13 goals)
Biggest Win: 4-0 vs. Sheffield United
Win Rate: 27%
Tottenham Hotspur:
Manager: Ange Postecoglou
Top Scorer: Son Heung-min (16 goals)
Biggest Win: 5-1 vs. Crystal Palace
Win Rate: 29%
2025 Europa League Final – The Only Chance for Glory
Both teams did not finish in the top 6 and this Europa League final in Bilbao is their only opportunity to try and win a major trophy and therefore gain qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season.
Date: May 28, 2025
Venue: San Mamés Stadium, Bilbao
Kick-off: 20:00 CET
What is on the line:
European silverware
UCL Qualification
Financial benefit
Prestige and momentum heading into next season
Regardless of their dismal domestic performances in the Premier League, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have continued to do quite well in Europe. The 2025 UEFA Europa League Final is not only about a trophy but about pride, legacy, and a brighter future.
With players such as Bruno Fernandes, Son Heung-min, Garnacho, and Kulusevski on the pitch, fans can expect an electric evening and the possibility of a new chapter concluding both clubs after a challenging domestic campaign.
Between Manchester United and Tottenham, which team will carry the cup?
Let us know your predictions down in comments below!
