According to reports, Casemiro scored a stunning header in the 30th minute after an exceptional move from Harry Maguire—whose role in the goal was unexpected for many—to break the deadlock against Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés Stadium in the UEFA Europa League semifinals.

The visiting team dominated the first half and deserved to double their lead just seven minutes later. After Dani Vivian was sent off with a straight red card for fouling Rasmus Højlund, Bruno Fernandes calmly converted a penalty.

Fernandes also scored his second goal of the match—and his seventh in the competition this season—in the closing minutes of the first half, delivering a precise and confident strike past Julen Agirrezabala to complete a dream first half for Ruben Amorim’s side.

In the second half, Manchester United maintained their three-goal lead with a solid defensive display and left San Mamés with a commanding victory, taking a big step toward reaching the final ahead of next week’s return leg at Old Trafford.

Casemiro has had moments of brilliance and inconsistency during his three-year spell at Manchester United, but Ferdinand praised his performance during the live broadcast of the match, which was Casemiro’s 112th European appearance.

The legendary former Manchester United and England defender said during his live commentary for TNT Sports: “I don’t think Casemiro made a single mistake. He was outstanding tonight. He played with incredible discipline and organization. People talked about moving him on, saying he couldn’t run anymore, and so on.

But look, he stepped up exactly when the team needed him. Casemiro is leading this team on the pitch in this crucial match, and this is a very important moment in their season.”