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Cristian “Cuti” Romero Named Man of the Match as Tottenham Claim Europa League Glory
Cristian “Cuti” Romero delivered a commanding performance to help Tottenham Hotspur secure a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the 2025 UEFA Europa League final, earning him the Man of the Match award.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Tottenham Hotspur lifted the Europa League trophy after defeating Manchester United 1-0 in the final held in Bilbao. The decisive goal came from an own goal by Manchester United’s Luke Shaw, following a shot by Spurs’ Brennan Johnson. Romero, who captained Tottenham on the night, was a dominant force in defense, repeatedly halting United’s attacks and engaging in several heated clashes with United defender Harry Maguire. In the closing moments, Maguire committed a harsh foul on Romero, earning a yellow card and adding extra intensity to an already fierce contest. After the final whistle, tensions simmered between the two defenders, underlining Romero’s combative spirit and leadership throughout the match.
ROMERO’S IMPACT AND SPURS’ SEASON
This victory marks Tottenham’s first continental trophy in over four decades. Romero’s performance capped off a remarkable run of form. Having returned from injury just in time for the final, he marshalled a defense that kept Manchester United at bay. The Argentine center-back has now won every final he has played in over the past four years, a streak that includes the Copa América 2021, Finalissima 2022, FIFA World Cup 2022, Copa América 2024, and now the Europa League in 2025. This season, Romero’s leadership has been crucial for Spurs, who finished fifth in the Premier League to secure European football for next season.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR TOTTENHAM AND ROMERO?
With this triumph, Tottenham will be aiming to build on their European success as they return to Premier League action. Romero’s form has made him indispensable for manager Ange Postecoglou, and his partnership at the back will be key as Spurs look to challenge for domestic honors next season. Tottenham’s next match will be in the Community Shield, where they will face Premier League champions Manchester City. The club will also aim to strengthen their squad in the summer to close the gap to the league’s top four, while Romero’s reputation as a “big game player” continues to grow.