Europa League: Man Utd claim dominant first-leg win over Bilbao
Manchester United secured a commanding 3-0 victory to take a significant step toward reaching the Europa League final, thanks to a stunning first-half performance against 10-man Athletic Bilbao. The result gives them a strong advantage heading into the semi-final second leg at Old Trafford.
Playing in a raucous San Mamés Stadium, United initially rode their luck. Inaki Williams missed a clear header, and Victor Lindelöf made a crucial goal-line block to deny Álex Berenguer.
However, the match swung in United’s favour in the 30th minute when Harry Maguire showed impressive footwork on the right and delivered a cross that was flicked on for Casemiro to head home the opener.
Seven minutes later, the visitors doubled their lead. Following a VAR review, United were awarded a penalty after Rasmus Højlund was fouled by Dani Vivian, who was subsequently sent off. Bruno Fernandes calmly converted the spot-kick despite loud boos from the home crowd.
United made it 3-0 just before halftime when Manuel Ugarte delivered a clever flick to Fernandes, who finished clinically to cap a dominant half.
Although a fourth goal would have virtually sealed the tie, the three-goal cushion is still likely to be insurmountable for the Spanish side when they travel to Old Trafford next Thursday.
With Tottenham defeating Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in their own semi-final first leg, an all-English Europa League final now looks increasingly likely.
