Bruno Scores Twice as Man United Edge Closer to Final

Manchester United delivered a dominant performance at San Mamés, defeating Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final on May 1, 2025. This emphatic away victory places United in a strong position ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford.

Bruno Fernandes scores United's 2nd and 3rd goal of the match

Bruno-Fernandes-scored-the-2nd-and-3rd-goal-of-the-match-to-ensure-United’s-victory

First-Half Blitz: United Capitalize on Opportunities

After withstanding early pressure from the hosts, Manchester United broke the deadlock in the 30th minute. Harry Maguire’s precise cross found Casemiro, who headed the ball past the goalkeeper to give United the lead. Seven minutes later, a pivotal moment occurred when Athletic’s Dani Vivian fouled Rasmus Højlund inside the box. Following a VAR review, Vivian received a red card, and Bruno Fernandes converted the ensuing penalty to double United’s advantage. Fernandes struck again just before halftime, finishing off a clever backheel assist from Manuel Ugarte, making it 3-0 .

Manchester United took control over the match early on

Rasmus-Hojlund-celebrates-alongside-teammates-PatricK-Dorgu-Alejandro-Garnacho-&-Manuel-Ugarte-after-United’s-opening-goal

Controversial Decisions Shape the Match

The red card issued to Dani Vivian was a turning point in the match. The decision, based on the referee’s interpretation of a clear goal-scoring opportunity, sparked debate among fans and analysts. Further controversy arose in the second half when a similar incident involving Alejandro Garnacho and Yuri Berchiche did not result in a penalty, highlighting inconsistencies in officiating .

Athletic Bilbao’s Resilience Falls Short

Despite being reduced to ten men, Athletic Bilbao showed determination in the second half. Iñaki Williams had a notable chance early on, but his header missed the target. United’s defense, bolstered by Victor Lindelöf’s goal-line clearance, maintained the clean sheet. The numerical disadvantage, however, limited Bilbao’s ability to mount a significant comeback .

Bilbao were down to 10 men against United

Bilbao’s-Dani-Vivian-argues-with-the-referee-about-his-controversial-red-card-decision

Looking Ahead: United Poised for Final Berth

With a three-goal cushion, Manchester United are well-positioned to advance to the Europa League final, scheduled for May 21. The second leg at Old Trafford on May 8 will determine their opponent, with the other semi-final featuring Tottenham Hotspur and Bodo/Glimt . United’s commanding performance in Bilbao has set the stage for a potential return to European glory.

Catch the Match Highlight’s of United’s victory over Bilbao here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0FF9FHcwgQ

Written By: Sushmita Shitole