he managed to
С горем пополам он смог приготовить себе ужин.
He managed to make himself dinner, though it was a struggle.
How was he able to wake up?
— Истребитель демонов: Поезд «Бесконечный» (2020)
Он смог построить маленький дом.
He was able to build a small house.
На эти деньги он смог купить новую машину.
With this money he was able to buy a new car.
По крайней мере, он смог закончить работу.
At least he was able to finish the job.
He was able to solve the problem.