According to reports, the most intense match of the UEFA Europa League semifinal first leg ended with a 2-0 victory for Manchester United against Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés Stadium. Rubén Amorim’s squad is now just one half away from securing a valuable away win.

Amorim’s team started the match with an early goal by Alejandro Garnacho in the 6th minute, but it was disallowed, keeping the score level. However, Ernesto Valverde’s side struggled against Manchester United’s dominance, and Casemiro finally broke the deadlock in the 30th minute.

The worst moment for Valverde’s team came after conceding the goal, as Daniel Vivian committed a penalty foul and was sent off in the 35th minute, making the situation even more difficult for Athletic Bilbao.

The incident occurred when a dangerous cross from Nasir Mazraoui into the box was intercepted by Vivian, but Rasmus Højlund’s fall convinced the referee to review the scene via VAR, leading to a penalty for Manchester United and a direct red card for Vivian. Bruno Fernandes converted the penalty to make it 2-0. The experienced Bilbao defender had grabbed Højlund from behind, causing the Danish striker to fall.

Interestingly, last week in Manchester United’s dramatic comeback against Lyon at Old Trafford, Corentin Tolisso was also sent off after receiving two yellow cards.