Tottenham Hotspur made history in European football with a 3-1 triumph over AZ Alkmaar in the second leg of their Europa League last-16 clash. Ange Postecoglou’s side overturned a 1-0 first-leg defeat to book their place in the quarter-finals.
Wilson Odobert opened the scoring to level the tie on aggregate, and James Maddison’s strike completed the turnaround. However, a defensive mix-up allowed Peer Koopmeiners to give AZ hope. Tottenham responded with a brilliant passing move from the back, ending with Odobert tapping in his second goal to seal the win.
Odobert’s first goal made history, as Spurs became the first team to have five players aged 21 or younger score in one season of a major European competition. Alongside Odobert (20), Dane Scarlett (20), Mikey Moore (17), Damola Ajayi (19), and Will Lankshear (19) also found the net in the 2024-25 Europa League campaign.
Lankshear, currently on loan at West Brom, scored in the 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray before being sent off in the same game. Meanwhile, Scarlett, Ajayi, and Moore all scored in a 3-0 win over Elfsborg in January. Odobert’s double against AZ added to this remarkable achievement.
Despite the historic night, Spurs nearly stumbled. A mix-up between Lucas Bergvall and Odobert gifted Koopmeiners a goal. However, Postecoglou’s men held firm to secure victory. The manager admitted his side was “their own worst enemy” but praised the team’s control and pressing game.
The win sets up a quarter-final clash with Eintracht Frankfurt. If successful, Spurs could face either Bodo/Glimt or Lazio in the semi-finals. The other side of the draw features Manchester United, Lyon, Rangers, and Athletic Bilbao, with the final set for May 21.
Odobert’s performance was particularly impressive, given his injury struggles since joining from Burnley in the summer. Despite making just his 11th appearance for the club, he was mobbed by teammates at full time for his crucial role in Tottenham’s success.
Next up for Spurs is a Premier League derby against Fulham before the international break, as Postecoglou’s men aim to continue their strong form both domestically and in Europe.