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Bruno Fernandes scored twice as Manchester United took a commanding 3-0 lead over Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final clash on Thursday, delivering a ruthless performance in Spain against a side reduced to 10 men.
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Casemiro gave United the lead against the flow of play before Bilbao’s Daniel Vivian was shown a red card for pulling down Rasmus Hojlund in the box. Fernandes converted the resulting penalty and added another before the break, putting Erik ten Hag’s team in firm control ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford.
Athletic had hoped to edge closer to a historic European triumph on home soil, with the final set to be played at their San Mames Stadium. However, United’s efficiency and Bilbao’s numerical disadvantage derailed those dreams—sparking outrage among home fans, who were furious over the officiating.
“You really saw two different matches—the first 25 minutes and then everything changed after the goal and red card,” said Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde, acknowledging how the dismissal shifted momentum.
With United struggling in 14th place in the Premier League, the Europa League represents their last chance for Champions League qualification and access to its lucrative financial rewards.
Despite early nerves, United withstood a strong opening from the hosts. Alejandro Garnacho had a goal ruled out for offside, and Bilbao threatened through Alex Berenguer and Inaki Williams, only to be denied by Andre Onana and Victor Lindelof.
Casemiro’s opener came after an unlikely run from Harry Maguire down the right, whose cross was flicked on by Manuel Ugarte for the Brazilian to head in. Soon after, Vivian’s foul on Hojlund handed Fernandes the chance to double the lead from the penalty spot—an opportunity he calmly took.
Fernandes made it three just before half-time, finishing off a clever assist from Ugarte.
Athletic supporters vented their frustration in the second half, particularly after Maguire appeared to impede Maroan Sannadi, but the referee waved play on. Despite United controlling possession after the break, they couldn’t extend their lead further.
Athletic now face a daunting task in the second leg next Thursday, with the winner to meet either Tottenham Hotspur or Bodo/Glimt in the final on May 21.
“We didn’t play particularly well, so we can’t blame it all on the red card,” said Inaki Williams. “We’re three goals down, but we still believe we can turn it around.”
