- Manchester United beat Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League semifinal
- Bruno Fernandes scored twice, while Casemiro added the opener
- Athletic defender Dani Vivian was sent off after conceding a controversial penalty in the 37th minute
Key Takeaways:
Manchester United delivered one of their strongest performances in recent weeks and secured a commanding 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at San Mames in the first leg of their Europa League semifinal clash. The Red Devils could have claimed an even more emphatic result, as one goal was disallowed and they struck the woodwork twice. Casemiro opened the scoring in the 30th minute, while Bruno Fernandes added two more — converting a penalty in the 37th and scoring again in the 45th. Norwegian referee Espen Eskas played a key role in the match with several controversial decisions, most notably awarding a penalty and sending off Dani Vivian.
19 – Manchester United have scored more goals in their seven UEFA Europa League games in 2025 (19) than they have in their 15 Premier League games this calendar year (18). Priorities. pic.twitter.com/l808EfeImJ
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 1, 2025
Manchester United almost took the lead in the 5th minute when Alejandro Garnacho was sent through on goal and finished calmly, but the flag was up for offside. Gradually, the hosts assumed control and increased the pressure. In the 11th minute, Inaki Williams got on the end of a cross and headed just over the bar from close range. Despite appearing pinned back, Manchester United struck first in the 30th minute. Harry Maguire ventured down the right, beat his marker and crossed. Manuel Ugarte flicked the ball on for Casemiro, who headed into the net from close range to make it 0-1.
The most debated moment of the match came in the 37th minute. Referee Espen Eskas awarded a penalty to the visitors after Dani Vivian was judged to have pulled Rasmus Hojlund’s shirt inside the box, preventing him from finishing a dangerous cross. Following a lengthy VAR review, the referee upheld the decision and also issued a red card to Vivian. Bruno Fernandes made it 0-2 from the spot. Athletic players were incensed, insisting that Garnacho had handled the ball earlier in the move. Just before halftime, Manuel Ugarte set up Fernandes again with a backheel, and the Portuguese midfielder slotted past the goalkeeper for 0-3.
United maintained the pressure in the second half. In the 52nd minute, they appealed for another penalty after Garnacho was brought down near goal, but this time the referee ignored the protests and VAR did not intervene.
In the end, Manchester United earned a deserved victory and now stand as overwhelming favourites to reach the final. Athletic Bilbao face a major uphill task in the return leg at Old Trafford if they are to keep their European hopes alive.