Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have moved a significant step closer to a potential all-English Europa League final in Bilbao following convincing victories in the first legs of their respective semifinal ties. Both Premier League sides established comfortable leads by halftime and maintained control through to the end. Manchester United defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0, with notable performances from Harry Maguire and Casemiro, while Tottenham overcame Bodo/Glimt 3-1, inspired by James Maddison.
For Manchester United and Tottenham, who currently sit 14th and 16th in the Premier League standings, this competition offers a crucial opportunity to redeem their domestic seasons and secure silverware. While Manchester United`s trophy drought is less lengthy than the 17-year wait Ange Postecoglou is looking to end at Tottenham, winning the Europa League under new manager Ruben Amorim could signal a positive direction for the Red Devils after parting ways with Erik ten Hag. Despite inconsistencies in the Premier League, European success could be their saving grace.
Europa League First Leg Results
- Tottenham 3, Bodo Glimt 1
- Athletic Club 0, Manchester United 3
Maguire Impresses for Manchester United
Manchester United responded effectively after Alejandro Garnacho`s early goal was disallowed by VAR. The breakthrough came from an unexpected source: Harry Maguire. Advancing from defense, Maguire navigated past Athletic Club players before delivering a precise cross, which was headed on by Manuel Ugarte to Casemiro for the crucial opening goal.
Athletic Club`s challenge became steeper five minutes later when defender Dani Vivian was shown a red card for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund. Bruno Fernandes converted the resulting penalty and then added a goal from open play just before the break, giving United a dominant 3-0 advantage. Reduced to 10 men and trailing by three goals, Athletic face a formidable task in the return leg at Old Trafford.
Tottenham Cruises at Home
Ange Postecoglou`s tactical adjustments paid off for Tottenham, including starting Richarlison on the left wing in place of Heung-min Son. The Brazilian promptly assisted Brennan Johnson for a goal within the opening minute, igniting the home crowd at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Pedro Porro also contributed an assist, linking up with James Maddison as Tottenham largely dictated the tempo of the match.
Bodo/Glimt managed to pull a goal back late in the game through Ulrik Saltnes, a strike that adds importance to the second leg in Norway. However, Dominic Solanke`s penalty in the second half provided a vital insurance goal. While a two-goal lead away from home is preferable, Tottenham, having shown defensive vulnerabilities at times this season, will remain cautious. They are determined to reach their first European final since losing to Liverpool in 2019, potentially setting up another final against English opposition in Spain.
Looking Ahead
The decisive second legs are scheduled for May 8th. Tottenham travels to Norway for their match against Bodo/Glimt at Aspyra stadium, where the hosts will need an exceptional performance to overturn the deficit. Manchester United will host Athletic Club at Old Trafford, where their fans anticipate celebrating passage to the Europa League final after the final whistle.
