Ange Postecoglou hits back at critics as spurs edge Frankfurt to reach Europa League semi-finals.

Ange Postecoglou didn’t hold back. After Tottenham Hotspur edged Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 to secure a Europa League semi-final place, the Spurs boss fired a pointed message to his critics: “Unfortunately, you’re going to have to put up with me a little longer.”

His side’s gritty performance in Frankfurt sealed a 2-1 aggregate win in a tense quarter-final tie—keeping hopes of silverware and European qualification alive. And for a manager under growing scrutiny after recent stumbles in the Premier League, this victory could hardly have come at a better time.

“I am the same manager I was yesterday,” Postecoglou told reporters post-match. “If you thought I wasn’t good enough before this, I doubt tonight changes your mind. But for me, what matters is that the dressing room believes.”

Pressure had been mounting following a humbling 4-2 loss to Wolves last weekend, with critics questioning Spurs’ resolve and the Aussie coach’s tactical nous. But Thursday night at Deutsche Bank Park delivered a much-needed response. Dominic Solanke’s penalty just before the break proved decisive, and Tottenham’s disciplined defence held firm under pressure from a desperate Frankfurt side.

Postecoglou took the chance to double down on his belief in the project he’s building, brushing off media noise and social media backlash.

“People like to mock and ridicule. They try to diminish my achievements. That’s fine—I’ll keep doing what I do,” he told TNT Sports. “We’re in a European semi-final. That’s not something this club sees very often.”

Postecoglou’s earlier comments this season—where he boldly claimed he always wins trophies in his second year—have lingered like a shadow as Spurs struggled for consistency. Their early exits in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup only fuelled doubts. But with the Europa League now offering a real shot at silverware, that prophecy might yet come true.

The atmosphere in Frankfurt was ferocious, but Spurs were composed. Mathys Tel stood out with a tireless display, while the midfield marshalled the game with maturity. The result was a blend of grit, belief, and timely execution—a combination that had eluded them in recent weeks.

Sky Sports’ Patrick Rowe noted the significance: “It was a performance that was needed. Their character has been questioned all season. Tonight, they answered emphatically.”

Spurs now face Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt in the semi-finals—a tie few would have predicted, but one that now feels tantalisingly winnable.

Despite the triumph, Postecoglou remains wary of the narrative around him. “Doubt this win silences anyone,” he said. “But it’s never about me. It’s about this group. They never lost belief, and I’m super proud of them.”

The journey isn’t over yet. Spurs still have to battle for a European place in the Premier League, with a high-stakes clash against Nottingham Forest coming up on Monday Night Football. But for now, Postecoglou and his players can savour a night where they proved they’re not done yet.

“Let’s see how this plays out,” the Spurs boss added with a smile. “But yeah—still here.