Manchester United took a commanding step towards the UEFA Europa League final with a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final first leg at San Mames. A brace from Bruno Fernandes and an opener from Casemiro sealed an impressive result for United, aided by the early dismissal of Bilbao defender Daniel Vivian.
United arrived in Bilbao under pressure, knowing that only Europa League triumph could grant them Champions League qualification next season. Though the match began with the hosts firmly in control, it was the visitors who struck first in clinical fashion. Against the run of play, centre-back Harry Maguire charged forward down the right wing, outmaneuvering Mikel Jaureguizar before delivering a sharp cross. Manuel Ugarte redirected it toward Casemiro, who headed home from close range.
That goal turned the tide, and moments later, United were handed a massive advantage. Vivian was shown a straight red card for pulling back Rasmus Hojlund in the box as he tried to meet a cross. Fernandes stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, doubling United’s lead and silencing the vibrant San Mames crowd.
The third came before the break, with Ugarte once again playing provider. His deft backheel released Fernandes through on goal, and the Portuguese midfielder made no mistake with a cool finish past the goalkeeper. United nearly added a fourth when Noussair Mazraoui struck the crossbar with a powerful drive from distance.
The match had started brightly for Athletic, with early chances for Alex Berenguer and Inaki Williams, but the red card proved pivotal. United, who had looked shaky in the opening stages, suddenly found control and rhythm. Their midfield, anchored by Casemiro and Ugarte, dictated play as Bilbao struggled to recover from the setback.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the hosts tried to rally. In the second half, they pressed for a lifeline and were furious when Maroan Sannadi went down under pressure from Maguire on a breakaway. Appeals for a foul were waved away, much to the dismay of the home fans, who waved white objects in protest. Tempers flared as frustrations grew, but United kept their composure, maintaining control without pushing too aggressively for a fourth goal.
Athletic, who have dreamed of lifting their first European trophy on home soil, now face a daunting task in the return leg at Old Trafford. Their hopes hang by a thread after being thoroughly outmaneuvered by a disciplined and ruthless United side.
Though languishing in mid-table domestically, United’s continental campaign continues to offer them salvation. Their manager credited the team for withstanding early pressure and capitalizing on key moments. He acknowledged the contrast between the game’s opening 25 minutes and the period after the red card, suggesting that the dismissal completely shifted the dynamics of the contest.
For Bilbao, the result is a bitter pill to swallow. While some players and fans criticized the refereeing decisions, others admitted that the performance did not meet expectations. Inaki Williams conceded that his team could not use the red card as an excuse, stating they must now believe in their ability to mount a dramatic comeback in Manchester.
With the final scheduled to be played at San Mames, the Basque side will be desperate to make the return leg count. But for now, United have seized control of the tie and look well on course for a European final that could yet salvage their season.
