Manchester United achieved their best European performance of the season with a 3-0 victory at Athletic Club in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final. Goals from Casemiro and a brace from Bruno Fernandes gave the Red Devils a commanding advantage heading into the return leg at Old Trafford, ending Athletic’s perfect home record in the competition this season.
First half – Ruthless Red Devils take control
The home side almost took the lead after Alejandro Garnacho’s goal was ruled out for offside. Álex Berenguer forced André Onana into the game and Iñaki Williams headed in the subsequent cross. But United opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a quality opportunity: Harry Maguire burst forward down the right, beat Mikel Jauregizar and crossed for Manuel Ugarte, who set up Casemiro with a powerful header at the far post.
Things quickly deteriorated for Athletic. Dani Vivian was shown a straight red card for pushing back Rasmus Højlund in the box, allowing Fernandes to double the lead from the penalty spot with a calm, effortless strike. And before halftime, the United captain made it 3-0 with a powerful left-footed strike following a clever counterattack.
Noussair Mazraoui almost added a fourth goal but rattled the bar in added time as the visitors ran riot.
Second half – Manchester United take control as hosts falter
With a three-goal lead and a man advantage, United took control of the game after the restart, while the home crowd expressed their frustration. An improbable effort from Ugarte and a header from Casemiro hit the post were the two teams closest to adding to the score in a generally lackluster second half.
Julen Agirrezabala made late saves to deny Fernandes and Garnacho, but Athletic struggled to seriously test Onana at the other end, managing just one shot on target after the break.
What this means
Manchester United now return to Old Trafford in full swing and with one foot in the final, which will be played at the same San Mamés stadium. Athletic have a colossal task in the return leg and must score at least three clean sheets to force extra time.
Key statistics
- Manchester United have ended Athletic Club’s 100% home record in this season’s UEFA Europa League.
- Bruno Fernandes scored his 12th and 13th goals of the season in all competitions.
- Casemiro has now scored three goals in his last six UEL appearances.
- United’s first win in 90 minutes in their last eight games.
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