Wilson Odobert played a decisive role in Tottenham Hotspur’s European campaign, scoring twice to overturn a first-leg deficit and secure a place in the Europa League quarterfinals at the expense of AZ Alkmaar.
With their domestic cup hopes dashed and a disappointing Premier League standing of 13th, Spurs’ European journey remains their last opportunity for silverware. A lackluster performance in the Netherlands saw them lose 1-0, but a much-improved showing at home ensured progression to the next round.
A vital turnaround at home
The breakthrough came when Dominic Solanke found Odobert in space, allowing the Frenchman to fire into the top corner for his first goal since joining from Burnley in the summer. This early strike set the tone for Spurs’ determined display.
After the interval, James Maddison combined with Son Heung-min in the box, playing a quick exchange before curling the ball into the net, giving Tottenham the advantage in the tie.
However, a mix-up between Odobert and Lucas Bergvall gifted AZ an equalizer on aggregate, as Peer Koopmeiners took advantage of the defensive mishap to drill home.
Odobert soon redeemed himself, capping off an impressive team move that started deep in Spurs’ half. A cross from Djed Spence was flicked on by Solanke, allowing Odobert to tap in from close range and restore their aggregate lead.
Late drama and defensive concerns
Despite their attacking brilliance, Spurs showed familiar defensive frailties late in the match. AZ had a golden chance to force extra time when Troy Parrott’s shot was kept out by Guglielmo Vicario, with Mees de Wit’s follow-up effort heroically cleared off the line by Yves Bissouma.
Even after regaining control, Tottenham’s inability to shut down the game was evident. They allowed AZ forward Mexx Meerdink a free header in the final minutes, though his decision to attempt the effort himself rather than setting up Parrott spared Spurs further trouble.
Nevertheless, Tottenham secured their passage to the last eight, where they will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who comfortably eliminated Ajax with a 6-2 aggregate win. A further boost for Spurs came as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven returned to the starting lineup together for the first time since December, offering hope for a more stable defense in the crucial weeks ahead.
