Bruno Fernandes scored twice as Manchester United stunned Athletic Club with a 3-0 first-leg victory in the Europa League semi-final, dealing a major blow to the Basque side’s dream of lifting a European trophy on home soil.
United, who had struggled for form in the Premier League, defied expectations at the Estadio de San Mames, breaching what had been Europe’s tightest home defence and handing Athletic their first home defeat since August.
Vivian sees Red as United take control
The match swung dramatically in United’s favour when Athletic defender Daniel Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Højlund. Fernandes converted the resulting penalty after Casemiro had earlier opened the scoring against the run of play.
Fernandes added a composed third before the break, as Ruben Amorim’s side, playing the final at their ground if they qualify, saw their hopes take a severe hit.
Champions League in sight
Sitting 14th in the Premier League, United’s only route into next season’s Champions League is through winning the Europa League, a path that could also unlock a £100 million windfall.
Despite inconsistencies throughout the season, including moments of collapse under pressure, United showed composure and maturity, particularly in the first half.
“We looked a little bit nervous at times in the first 20 minutes… We weathered the storm, and we knew we’d get our chance,” United captain Harry Maguire told TNT Sports.
“It was a clinical first half, professional second half… It’s a great victory in the end, but there’s another big game next week.”
Hostile atmosphere
Bilbao’s streets had been buzzing all day as fans anticipated a historic European night. The home crowd created an electric atmosphere inside San Mames, with all Athletic players either born or raised in the Basque Country.
The second leg will be played next week at Old Trafford, where United will aim to finish the job and book their place in the final.
