Manchester United delivered a statement performance in their Europa League semi-final first leg, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Estadio de San Mamés. Bruno Fernandes was the star of the night, netting a brace and orchestrating United’s attack with precision and flair.
First-Half Blitz Leaves Athletic Club Reeling
Athletic Club, boasting one of Europe’s tightest home defenses, had not lost at San Mamés since August. However, United shattered that streak with a ruthless first-half display. The breakthrough came in the 30th minute, when Harry Maguire, in an uncharacteristic winger role, danced past his marker and delivered a pinpoint cross. Manuel Ugarte flicked the ball on, allowing Casemiro to head home the opener.
Just minutes later, the match took a decisive turn. Rasmus Højlund was pulled down in the box by Dani Vivian, prompting the referee to award a penalty and send off the Athletic Club defender. Fernandes stepped up, unfazed by the hostile crowd, and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner to double United’s lead.
Before the half-time whistle, Fernandes struck again. Ugarte’s clever backheel set up the Portuguese playmaker, who curled a composed finish past Julen Agirrezabala, putting United in complete control.
United Manage the Second Half with Authority
With a three-goal cushion, United shifted gears in the second half, focusing on game management rather than relentless attacking. Casemiro nearly grabbed a second, hitting the post with a header from a corner, while Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho saw their efforts parried by Agirrezabala.
Athletic Club struggled to mount a response, their frustration evident as they appealed for decisions that never came. United’s defense, marshaled by Maguire and Victor Lindelöf, remained resolute, ensuring a rare no-fuss clean sheet.
Fernandes: The Driving Force
Fernandes’ performance was nothing short of masterful. His two goals and overall influence on the game reaffirmed his status as United’s talisman. Speaking after the match, he praised his teammates, particularly Maguire, whose unexpected attacking contribution set the tone for the victory.
“I saidwhat a winger!’ I don’t think even he thought he had that in his locker,” Fernandes joked in his post-match interview.
Looking Ahead to the Second Leg
United will take their three-goal advantage back to Old Trafford for the second leg, knowing that a place in the Europa League final is within reach. Athletic Club, meanwhile, must regroup and find a way to overturn the deficit in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
With Fernandes in top form and United showing their European pedigree, the Red Devils are now firm favorites to advance. Can Athletic Club stage a miraculous comeback, or will United complete the job at home?
