Manchester United took a major step toward the Europa League final with a commanding 3-0 win over Athletic Club at San Mamés, handing the Spanish side their first home defeat in this season’s competition. Bruno Fernandes was the star of the night, netting twice to move joint-top in the tournament’s scoring charts.
This result extends United’s unbeaten run in the Europa League to 13 matches (8 wins, 5 draws) and puts them in a dominant position ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford. Given the size of their advantage, it would take a major upset to deny them a place in the final.
Historically, Athletic Club had the edge in head-to-head clashes with Manchester United, winning three of their previous five meetings. However, United's emphatic victory in Bilbao has shifted momentum firmly in their favor. This upcoming match at Old Trafford will be only the second between the teams at the iconic stadium and the sixth overall.
Athletic Club face an uphill battle, especially with key players missing. The Williams brothers and Oihan Sancet responsible for over half of the team’s Europa League goals will not be available for the return leg.
Since taking over as manager, Ruben Amorim has led United to 24 goals in the Europa League, which is closing in on their domestic tally under his leadership. Despite United's shaky historical record in European knockouts against Spanish teams winning 7 and losing 9 — they now have a golden opportunity to improve that statistic and secure a spot in the final.
Manchester United vs Athletic Club injury updates
Man Utd injury list
Lisandro Martínez (knee), De Ligt (knock), Diogo Dalot (calf), Joshua Zirkzee (hamstring), Ayden Heaven (leg)
Athletic Bilbao injury list
Oihan Sancet (muscular), Inaki Williams (hamstring), Nico Williams (groin)
Manchester United vs Athletic Club live streaming & Key details
Key Details about Manchester United vs Athletic Club match
Date: Thursday, May 8 at 12.30 a.m. IST
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Which channel will broadcast Manchester United vs Athletic Club Europa League semi-final 2nd leg
Manchester United vs Athletic Club Europa League semi-final 2nd leg will be shown on Sony Sports Network in India
Which OTT platform will live stream Manchester United vs Athletic Club Europa League semi-final 2nd leg
The live streamin gof Manchester United vs Athletic Club Europa League semi-final 2nd leg will be available on SonyLiv
