The Europa League quarterfinals are reaching their climax on Tuesday, with each game finely balanced. Manchester United and Tottenham are under pressure to succeed in this competition to boost their Premier League seasons. However, the journey to the final in Bilbao on May 21st will be challenging for all remaining teams. You can catch all Europa League action on Paramount+.
Lazio faced very cold conditions in their first away match against Bodo/Glimt and now need to overturn a two-goal deficit at home. Considering Lazio`s European performances this season, they will be confident in their ability to advance. This is the only tie where one team holds a lead, as all other first legs ended in draws.
With Athletic Club still in contention, there`s an increasing possibility that the final in Bilbao could feature the local Basque team. They drew with Rangers in Scotland but are expected to win their home leg.
For Tottenham, they face familiar injury problems as Heung-min Son will miss the away game against Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany. Although Frankfurt might be slightly weaker without Omar Marmoush, they proved a tough opponent for Tottenham in London. Currently 15th in the Premier League, this match could be crucial for Ange Postecoglou`s future as Tottenham manager. The pressure has been building throughout the tournament and intensifies as they progress.
For Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, the pressure might not be as intense as on Postecoglou, but United are expected to compete in the Champions League every season. Winning the Europa League is likely their path to Champions League qualification. Failure to qualify for the Champions League could complicate summer player recruitment. Against Lyon, conceding a late goal to Rayan Cherki in the first leg has put them in a precarious position, something they must avoid at home.
Europa League Quarterfinal Schedule
- Lazio vs. Bodo/Glimt
- Manchester United vs. Lyon
- Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Tottenham
- Athletic Club vs Rangers
