Manchester United dominate Athletic and come close to historic final against Spurs | OneFootball

On a memorable night for English soccer, Manchester United were absolutely dominant against Athletic Bilbao and won 3-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-finals in Spain. The Red Devils overcame an opponent who was prepared to exploit their weaknesses, but it wasn't enough.

Rúben Amorim's side started the match with problems on the break, but managed to be very efficient and surprised the Basques. In the 31st minute, Harry Maguire came on as a right winger and took the ball to the by-line, crossing for Ugarte to come free and slot home for Casemiro to open the scoring for the Red Devils.

Clearly emotionally affected by the goal they had conceded, Athletic Bilbao gave Manchester United the best possible scenario three minutes later. Out of contention for the ball, Dani Vivian held Hojland in the box and prevented the center-forward from scoring. The referee was called to the VAR and awarded the penalty, correctly sending off the player from the Basque club.

Athletic Bilbao v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Clive Brunskill/GettyImages

Without hesitation, Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot to make it two goals to the good. But Manchester United's desire to punish their opponents grew with an extra player on the pitch and the third goal came before the 45th minute, when Ugarte laid the ball on for Bruno Fernandes to beat the goalkeeper in the 1v1 duel.

Red Devils still had a chance to extend their lead before the break with Mazroui's shot hitting the post. In the second half, United totally controlled the action and reduced the intensity of the match, being patient enough to build attacking moves and manage the lead without Athletic Bilbao being able to react with one player less.

Manchester United likely to decide Europa League against Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur v FK Bodo/Glimt - UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Jean Catuffe/GettyImages

The results of the first leg have left England anxious about a possible final between Manchester United and Tottenham in the Europa League. Spurs beat Bodo/Glimt 3-1 and managed to take a safe lead into the away leg. Tottenham opened the scoring through Johnson 37 seconds into the game. James Maddison then took advantage of a throw-in from Pedro Porro and extended the lead.

Solanke scored the third goal during the second half and had all but wrapped up the tie in the first leg, but Bodo/Glimt managed to reduce the deficit thanks to Saitnes' cross-shot that took a deflection and prevented Vicario from saving. Nevertheless, two of the Premier League's biggest clubs are set to meet in an explosive final on May 21 at San Mamés.