Tottenham Hotspur showcased their determination and skill on March 14, 2025, successfully defeating AZ Alkmaar 3-1 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This win not only rebounded from their previous 0-1 loss in the first leg but also secured their progression to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) with an aggregate score of 3-2.
The match was particularly significant for Tottenham, who faced elimination had they failed to overturn the deficit. Led by their captain, Son Heung-min, the team showed resilience and tactical prowess throughout the game. He was instrumental, playing the full match and contributing to all three of Tottenham's goals.
Tottenham kicked off the match with aggressive intentions, aiming to regain control from the outset. Son Heung-min, forming part of the attack alongside Dominic Solanke and Wilson Odobert, created several opportunities early on. His pressing game paid off at the 26th minute when he pounced on defensive errors from AZ Alkmaar, resulting in Odobert's goal, leveling the aggregate score at 1-1.
Just three minutes after the half-time break, with the score at 1-0, Son provided another assist. He deftly delivered the ball to James Maddison, who finished with precision, giving Tottenham the advantage at 2-1 on aggregate.
Despite this lead, the match was far from over. AZ Alkmaar struck back with a goal at the 63rd minute, courtesy of a miscommunication in Tottenham's defense, tying the aggregate score at 2-2. The pressure was palpable as both teams sought to clinch the match.
Undeterred, Tottenham responded emphatically. A well-timed play on the left side saw Son again involved, laying the groundwork for Odobert’s decisive goal at the 74th minute. This brought the score to 3-2 on aggregate, sealing Tottenham’s place in the next round.
This victory marks not just advancement but also signifies the team's potential to break free from the unfortunate narrative of the season, particularly after falling short earlier in domestic competitions.
Son Heung-min's performance was particularly noteworthy. He recorded his 12th assist of the season, adding to his impressive tally of 22 goal contributions this campaign — showcasing his value as both a leader and playmaker on the field.
After the match, widespread praise was directed at Tottenham's strategy and execution. Commentators noted Son's ability to be the fulcrum of the attack, exemplifying leadership through his play. Football London highlighted, "Son Heung-min's excellent pressing set the stage for the first goal and exemplified his influential role as captain. He not only assisted well but also created space and opportunities for his teammates, showing why Tottenham relies so heavily on him.”
Advancing to the quarterfinals, Tottenham will now face Eintracht Frankfurt, with matches scheduled for April 10 and 17, 2025. This upcoming challenge holds the potential for redemption and possible glory as they aim for UEFA success for the first time since the 2012-2013 season.
Eyes will be on Son and the squad as they continue their campaign, determined to not only go far but translate their potential and past disappointments this season to real success on the European stage.