Manchester United Stun Bilbao as Fernandes Shines

After an amazing 3-0 victory over 10-man Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the semi-final here at San Mamés Stadium, Manchester United raised their Europa League final prospects.

Early on in the game, the visitors were fortunate when Victor Lindelof made a great effort to block Alex Berenguer’s shot on the line while Bilbao’s Inaki Williams missed a header from an ideal position.

In the 30th minute, Casemiro grabbed on Harry Maguire’s outstanding performance on the right to put his club ahead 1-0, therefore turning the game in favour of United.

Seven minutes later, skipper Bruno Fernandes scored on penalties following Dani Vivian’s dismissal due to bringing down Rasmus Hojlund inside the box, so doubling the lead.

Just before the half-hour, Fernandes kept his amazing pace as Manuel Ugarte executed a deft flick giving United a 3-0 advantage at the halftime mark.

Although the Red Devils could have added more in the second half, they did not show any deference to the chances.

Though he has three goals advantage coming to the second leg, United’s coach Ruben Amorim believes it is not yet over.

“I believe the outcome is quite fantastic, but we also have to consider it concurrently. Although we suffered much at first, Casemiro’s score and the sending off transformed the game. That is a benefit, though; with a little bit of luck, we stayed in the Game and everything is changeable in one circumstance.

We had chances to score one more, I believe. We do not do this. In Old Trafford, they can accomplish the same since they are quite strong and passionate. We must be ready as one sending off may go place in our stadium. United will be playing the Spanish team on Thursday May 8 at Old Trafford in the second leg.