Tottenham Hotspur’s star striker Dominic Solanke has expressed unwavering belief in his team’s ability to clinch the UEFA Europa League title, even as their Premier League campaign continues to falter. Speaking after Spurs’ hard-fought 1-0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League quarter-final second leg, Solanke’s optimism shone through, offering a glimmer of hope for a fanbase frustrated by a disappointing domestic season.
Tottenham secured their place in the Europa League semi-finals with a 2-1 aggregate win, thanks to Solanke’s decisive first-half penalty in Frankfurt. The 27-year-old forward, who joined Spurs from Bournemouth in a club-record £65 million deal last summer, ended a 12-match goal drought with the spot-kick, a moment that sparked wild celebrations among the traveling supporters. The victory sets up a semi-final clash with Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt, keeping Tottenham’s dreams of a first trophy in 17 years alive.
“100 percent, we can win it,” Solanke declared when asked about Tottenham’s Europa League prospects. “When we’ve got everyone fit, we believe we can beat anyone. This cup was something we had our eyes on from the start of the season. We’re not far off now, so hopefully we can keep producing these performances.” His comments, echoed across posts on X, reflect a dressing room united in its pursuit of European glory, despite the challenges faced in the Premier League.
Tottenham’s domestic season has been nothing short of turbulent. Currently languishing in 15th place in the Premier League, Spurs have suffered 17 losses in the 2024/25 campaign, a stark contrast to the high expectations set by manager Ange Postecoglou. The Australian, who famously claimed he “always” wins trophies in his second year at a club, has faced mounting pressure as results have deteriorated. Injuries to key players, including captain Son Heung-min and Solanke himself, who missed nearly two months with a knee injury, have compounded the team’s woes.
Yet, in Europe, Tottenham have shown resilience and character. The win over Frankfurt, described by BBC Sport as a “mature performance from a side that has looked anything but for much of this season,” highlighted Spurs’ ability to rise to the occasion. Solanke’s penalty, awarded after a VAR review for a foul on James Maddison, was the defining moment, but the team’s defensive resolve—bolstered by Micky van de Ven’s last-ditch tackle and Guglielmo Vicario’s crucial save—ensured they held firm under pressure.
Postecoglou, too, has remained defiant, insisting he never lost faith in his squad. “There’s a growing belief that we can lift the trophy next month,” he told The Guardian after the Frankfurt match. “This is exactly the tonic we needed after a tough season.” The semi-final against Bodø/Glimt, a team known for their attacking flair, will test Tottenham’s mettle, but Solanke’s work rate and leadership could prove pivotal.
Despite his modest return of seven Premier League goals this season, Solanke’s all-around contributions have been praised. Data from Footovision, cited by The Athletic, shows he leads the league in pressures in a high block, underscoring his relentless work ethic off the ball. “Dom has been outstanding in the way he’s carried the front line for us,” Postecoglou noted earlier this season, highlighting the demands of his high-pressing system.
For Tottenham fans, the Europa League represents a chance to salvage a season that has otherwise been defined by disappointment. Solanke’s confidence, backed by a squad that believes it can “beat anyone” when at full strength, has reignited hope. As Spurs prepare for their semi-final showdown, the prospect of ending their trophy drought in May’s final is tantalizingly close.
“We know it’s not been easy for the fans,” Solanke added. “But everyone in the dressing room knows what we’re capable of. We’re going to give everything to bring this trophy home.”