https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBtrMMdyczc
Manchester United delivered a commanding 3–0 win over Athletic Club on May 1, 2025, at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semifinal. The result puts United in a dominant position ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford on May 8.
The match started cautiously, but Manchester United quickly took control. In the 30th minute, Harry Maguire sent in a dangerous cross from the right wing. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte flicked the ball into the path of Casemiro, who headed it into the net to give the visitors a 1–0 lead.
Just seven minutes later, the game tilted heavily in United’s favor. Dani Vivian was sent off with a straight red card for pulling down Rasmus Højlund inside the penalty area. Bruno Fernandes stepped up and converted the penalty with ease, doubling United’s lead to 2–0.
Before halftime, the Red Devils struck again. Ugarte played another smart pass into the box, where Bruno Fernandes calmly placed his shot past Athletic’s goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala, scoring his second goal of the night and putting the match firmly in United’s hands.
In the second half, Manchester United focused on managing their lead. With a three-goal cushion and a numerical advantage, they maintained possession and denied Athletic Club any clear scoring chances. The Basque side, reduced to ten men, found it impossible to mount a comeback.
The result leaves Athletic needing a near-miracle in the second leg. Manchester United, meanwhile, will return home knowing a solid performance will be enough to book their place in the Europa League final in Dublin.
This match is part of the 2024–25 UEFA Europa League — one of Europe’s most prestigious club competitions, second only to the UEFA Champions League.
