Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Manchester United: Amorim’s Team Returns to San Mamés
Manchester United secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-finals at San Mamés, putting Rubén Amorim’s side in a strong position ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford.
Manchester United started the match aggressively, with Alejandro Garnacho having an early goal disallowed by VAR in the 6th minute. The pressure paid off when Casemiro opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a clinical finish.
A penalty and a red card for Bilbao’s defender allowed Bruno Fernandes to double United’s lead in the 37th minute. Just before halftime, Fernandes struck again, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Rasmus Højlund to make it 3-0.
The second half saw a drop in intensity, but United remained in control against a 10-man Bilbao. Goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala prevented further damage with several key saves.
With the final of this season’s Europa League also set to be held at San Mamés, Amorim’s men may return to the stadium in a few weeks for the decisive match.
Goals:
Bilbao 0-1 Manchester United: A brilliant header from Harry Maguire set up Casemiro, who finished clinically in the 30th minute.
Bilbao 0-2 Manchester United: Bruno Fernandes converted a controversial penalty in the 37th minute, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
Bilbao 0-3 Manchester United: Rasmus Højlund’s clever backheel found Fernandes, who completed his brace with a composed finish in the 45th minute.
