Bruno Fernandes brace propels Manchester United past 10-Man Athletic Bilbao in UEL Clash

Bruno Fernandes netted twice as Manchester United secured a commanding 3-0 victory over 10-man Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night, taking a significant step towards the UEFA Europa League final.

In front of a vibrant crowd at San Mamés, Athletic’s hopes suffered an early blow when defender Daniel Vivian was shown a straight red card for pulling down Rasmus Højlund inside the area. Fernandes calmly converted the resulting penalty, shortly after Casemiro had headed United into the lead against the run of play in the first leg of this semi-final tie.

The Portuguese midfielder struck again before half-time, capitalising on a clever backheel from Manuel Ugarte to slot home United’s third, placing Erik ten Hag’s men firmly in control ahead of next week’s return leg at Old Trafford.

Despite a turbulent domestic campaign that has left them 14th in the Premier League, United’s European hopes remain alive, with the Europa League offering a vital route to Champions League qualification and the financial benefits that come with it.

Athletic had started brightly, with Alejandro Garnacho seeing an early effort disallowed for offside before the hosts launched a series of dangerous attacks. Alex Berenguer tested André Onana with a sharp drive, and Iñaki Williams went close with a header.

However, the breakthrough came unexpectedly when Harry Maguire surged down the right flank and delivered a cross that Ugarte deftly flicked on for Casemiro to nod home.

Moments later, the game tilted decisively in United’s favour as Vivian was dismissed for dragging down Højlund, allowing Fernandes to score from the spot. Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde made swift tactical adjustments, but the visitors struck again when Fernandes finished off a neat exchange with Ugarte to complete his brace.

Noussair Mazraoui nearly added a fourth for United before the interval, rattling the crossbar with a powerful strike. Referee Espen Eskås was met with hostility from the home supporters over several contentious decisions.

The second half saw United dictate proceedings, with Casemiro and Fernandes pulling the strings against a depleted Athletic side. Though opportunities to extend the lead were not converted, United comfortably saw out the match.

The second leg is scheduled for next Thursday in Manchester, with the victor set to face either Tottenham Hotspur or Bodø/Glimt in the final on 21 May.