English-Nigerian striker Dominic Solanke delivered when it mattered most, slotting home a decisive penalty to send Tottenham Hotspur into the Europa League semi-finals with a tough 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday, sealing a 2-1 aggregate victory.
The breakthrough came late in the first half after Frankfurt keeper Kaua Santos clattered into James Maddison while attempting to intercept a cross. VAR stepped in, awarding the spot-kick. Solanke, goalless since January, took charge and coolly converted after a brief debate with Mathys Tel.
Before that, chances were shared at both ends. Hugo Ekitike threatened early for Frankfurt, only to be denied by a sharp intervention from Micky van de Ven. On the other side, Tel drew a fine fingertip save from Santos.
Frankfurt’s rhythm took a hit when Mario Goetze limped off with a hamstring injury, leaving their midfield lacking direction.
In the second half, Spurs focused on holding their lead. Frankfurt pressed and pushed, but couldn’t break through, and Solanke’s penalty proved enough to see Tottenham through to the last four.
