Tottenham Secure Last-16 Spot with Late Flurry Against Elfsborg

Tottenham Hotspur sealed automatic qualification to the Europa League last 16 with a 3-0 victory over Elfsborg, extending their unbeaten home run in European competitions to 17 matches. Despite dominating possession and chances, Spurs struggled to break down the Swedish side until a late surge in the final 20 minutes.

The night turned into a dream scenario for manager Ange Postecoglou, as three academy graduates—Dane Scarlett, Tyrese Ajayi, and Alfie Dorrington—each found the net with their first senior goals for the club. Their contributions ensured a feel-good finish at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, lifting the mood ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Brentford.

Spurs controlled proceedings throughout, outshooting their opponents 21-4 and recording an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.56 compared to Elfsborg’s 0.46. However, clear-cut chances were scarce until the late breakthrough. Scarlett opened the scoring in the 70th minute, before Ajayi and Moore sealed the win with well-taken strikes.

For Elfsborg, it was a disappointing end to their European campaign, as they failed to offer much going forward and finished 26th in the Europa League standings. With just three appearances beyond the first round in their history, their struggles in European competitions continue.

Meanwhile, Tottenham's progression marks their sixth successful group stage campaign in their last seven European outings. With their place in the knockout rounds secured, they can now turn their attention back to domestic matters, starting with a tricky visit to Brentford.