Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur both secured commanding victories in the first legs of their Europa League semi-finals, putting them in strong positions to reach the final in Bilbao.
MAN UNITED THRASH ATHLETIC CLUB 3-0
United’s dominant display in Spain saw them claim a 3-0 win over Athletic Club, with Bruno Fernandes netting twice. Casemiro headed in the opener after a cross from Harry Maguire, before Fernandes converted a penalty following a VAR review that saw Athletic’s Dani Vivian sent off. Fernandes added his second just before halftime, finishing confidently after a clever backheel assist from Manuel Ugarte.
TOTTENHAM EDGE BODØ/GLIMT 3-1
Tottenham earned a 3-1 home victory over Bodø/Glimt, with Brennan Johnson opening the scoring after just 38 seconds. James Maddison doubled the lead with a superb finish, before Dominic Solanke made it 3-0 from the penalty spot. Bodø/Glimt managed a late consolation goal, but Spurs’ advantage heading into the second leg is significant.
Both English teams now have a great chance of reaching the final, with an all-English showpiece in Bilbao becoming increasingly likely. The second legs promise to be thrilling, but for now, United and Spurs are one step away from glory.
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