Real Sociedad, Man Utd draw as Athletic Bilbao suffers late heartbreak in Europa League

IANS March 7, 2025 145 views

Manchester United and Real Sociedad played out a fascinating 1-1 draw in the Europa League last-16 first leg at Reale Arena. Joshua Zirkzee gave United the lead with a clinical left-foot strike, but Mikel Oyarzabal quickly equalized from the penalty spot after a Bruno Fernandes handball. Both teams demonstrated tactical discipline, creating limited but high-quality scoring opportunities throughout the match. The result sets up an intriguing second leg with everything still to play for in this exciting European encounter.

"A tactical battle with moments of brilliance from both sides" - Neutral Match Observer
Madrid, March 7: Real Sociedad and Manchester United drew the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie 1-1 at the Basque side's Reale Arena.

Key Points

1

Zirkzee opens scoring for Manchester United

2

Oyarzabal converts crucial penalty equalizer

3

Tactical defensive matchup defines game

4

Europa League knockout drama unfolds

Real Sociedad suffered a setback before kickoff when Spain international Martin Zubimendi was forced to drop out of the squad through illness. His side lacked fluidity in the opening minutes against a rival that was playing five in defense and looking to attack on the break.

Alejandro Garnacho had the first chance in the game as he cut inside for Manchester United, but he shot straight at home goalkeeper Alex Remiro.

Both sides were working well to close down spaces and chances were at a premium, although Joshua Zirkzee went close for United, but Aritz Elustondo blocked his consecutive efforts, while at the other end Andre Onana didn't have a shot to save.

Garnacho had the second half's first chance after a well-worked free kick, which he steered just the wrong side of the post.

Zirkzee put United ahead in the second half with a left-foot shot from Bruno Fernandes' pass, with Remiro slightly out of position, but Real Sociedad leveled from the penalty spot, with Mikel Oyarzabal slotting home after Fernandes needlessly handled a corner.

Brais Mendez went close to a winner for Real Sociedad, but his effort was well saved by Onana.

Athletic Bilbao suffered heartbreak in the last second of their first leg away to Roma as Eldor Shomurodov scored the winning goal for the Italian side.

Inaki Williams' close-range header put Athletic in front in the 50th minute, but Angelino equalized six minutes later and Athletic had to defend the closing minutes with 10 men when defender Yeray Alvarez was sent off for a second yellow card.

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