Manchester United secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Athletic Club in their UEFA Europa League semi-final first leg, ending the Spanish side’s perfect home record in the competition.
With the final set to be held at Athletic’s San Mamés Stadium, Manchester United asserted their intent to be there. Alejandro Garnacho had an early goal disallowed for offside.
Athletic Club quickly responded, nearly taking the lead when Álex Berenguer’s shot was pushed wide, and Iñaki Williams headed his cross narrowly over.
After a close call, Manchester United’s Victor Lindelöf made two crucial blocks to deny Williams’ cross and Berenguer’s shot.
Manchester United’s breakthrough came when Harry Maguire, playing in an unfamiliar wing position, beat Mikel Jauregizar and crossed for Manuel Ugarte to head home.
Athletic Club’s situation worsened when Dani Vivian pulled down Rasmus Højlund, resulting in a red card and a penalty. Bruno Fernandes converted the penalty with composure.
Fernandes added another goal just before halftime, further silencing the San Mamés crowd.
Noussair Mazraoui hit the crossbar in the final moments of the first half. In the second half, Manchester United maintained control, frustrating Athletic Club.
Ugarte’s long-range effort was the first attempt of the second half. Shortly after, Casemiro’s shot was tipped over the bar by Julen Agirrezabala, who then denied Casemiro again from the resulting corner.
Agirrezabala made further saves to deny Fernandes and Garnacho late in the game, but Manchester United secured a convincing 3-0 victory.
This win marks only the second defeat for Athletic Club in their last 11 matches, with the other loss coming against Real Madrid. Athletic Club now faces a significant challenge to qualify for the final at their home stadium.
