The Europa League quarterfinals are reaching their conclusion with closely contested matches. Manchester United and Tottenham are in the spotlight as they aim to salvage their Premier League seasons through European success. The path to the final in Bilbao on May 21 promises to be challenging for all remaining teams. You can watch Europa League on Paramount+.
Lazio faced very cold conditions in their away game against Bodo/Glimt and now need to overcome a two-goal deficit at home. Considering Lazio`s European performances this season, they will be confident in their chances. This is the only quarterfinal where a team holds a lead after the first leg, as all other matches ended in draws.
With Athletic Club still in contention, there`s an increasing possibility of the final being held in Bilbao featuring the Basque team. They drew with Rangers in Scotland but are still expected to win at home.
For Tottenham, injuries continue to be a concern as Heung-min Son will miss the away match against Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany. Despite Frankfurt`s slight dip in form since Omar Marmoush`s departure, they proved to be a tough opponent for Tottenham in London. Currently 15th in the Premier League, this game could significantly impact Ange Postecoglou`s future as Tottenham`s manager. The pressure has been mounting throughout the tournament, and it intensifies as they progress.
For Manchester United, while Ruben Amorim isn`t under the same level of pressure as Postecoglou, there are high expectations for United to compete in the Champions League every season. Winning the Europa League might be their only route back to the Champions League. Failure to qualify for the Champions League could hinder their summer recruitment plans to build the team in Amorim`s vision. Against Lyon, conceding a late goal to Rayan Cherki in the first leg has put them in a precarious situation, something they must avoid at home.
