Manchester United took a commanding lead in their Europa League semi-final tie, securing a convincing 3-0 away victory over Athletic Bilbao at the iconic San Mames Stadium.
The result puts United within touching distance of the final, which will also be played at the same venue later this month.
Athletic Bilbao began the game with intensity, spurred on by a passionate home crowd dreaming of seeing their team reach a European final on home soil. They pressed high and created multiple early chances. In the opening minutes, Alex Berenguer forced a smart save from Manchester goalkeeper Andre Onana, who tipped the ball wide. Moments later, Inaki Williams headed over the bar from a promising position, before Berenguer had another effort cleared off the line following a cutback from Williams.
Despite the early pressure, it was Manchester United who opened the scoring in the 30th minute. Defender Harry Maguire, venturing forward down the right flank, delivered a precise cross that Casemiro nodded home, giving United a 1-0 lead. Just five minutes later, controversy struck when Alejandro Garnacho appeared to control the ball with his hand, but play continued. Rasmus Hojlund then went down inside the box, prompting a lengthy VAR check.
The referee not only awarded a penalty but also issued a straight red card to Dani Vivian, reducing Athletic to 10 men. Bruno Fernandes confidently converted the spot-kick, doubling United’s advantage. The home side was still reeling when Fernandes struck again, latching onto a clever pass from Manuel Ugarte to make it 3-0 before halftime.
The second half saw Manchester United in complete control, taking full advantage of their numerical superiority. Although Casemiro hit the post with a header and Fernandes came close to a hat-trick, Bilbao’s goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala made a couple of fine saves to prevent further damage.
Despite their spirited effort, Athletic looked disjointed after the dismissal and now face a monumental task in the return leg. Manchester fans will be hopeful, with United now clear favorites to advance and return to Bilbao for the Europa League final on May 21.