The possibility of an all-Premier League showdown in the Europa League final in Bilbao has increased significantly after both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United triumphed in the first legs of their semifinal ties. Both English sides demonstrated strong performances, establishing comfortable leads before halftime and seeing out their victories. Manchester United, with key contributions from Harry Maguire and Casemiro, defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0, while Tottenham, inspired by James Maddison, secured a 3-1 win against Bodo/Glimt.
For these clubs, currently positioned in 14th and 16th place respectively in the Premier League, success in this European competition offers a critical path to salvaging their domestic campaigns. Manchester United`s current trophy drought might not rival Tottenham`s 17-year wait (which Ange Postecoglou aims to end), but winning the Europa League under their second manager of the season, Ruben Amorim (following Erik ten Hag`s departure), could signal positive momentum. While they`ve struggled to find consistency in the league, European fixtures could provide the vital lift they need.
Europa League First Leg Scores
- Tottenham 3, Bodo Glimt 1
- Athletic Club 0, Manchester United 3
Manchester United Dominates Athletic Bilbao
Manchester United responded swiftly after Alejandro Garnacho`s early goal was disallowed following a VAR review. The breakthrough came from an unlikely source: Harry Maguire advanced and delivered a cross that was headed on by Manuel Ugarte to Casemiro, who converted the opening goal. Just five minutes later, Athletic Club faced a further setback when defender Dani Vivian was shown a red card for a challenge on Rasmus Hojlund. Bruno Fernandes successfully converted the subsequent penalty and then added a third goal from open play just before the interval. Reduced to ten men and trailing significantly, Athletic Club offered little resistance, leaving them with a substantial challenge to overcome in the return leg at Old Trafford.
Tottenham Takes Control Against Bodo/Glimt
Manager Ange Postecoglou made several changes to his starting lineup, including Richarlison on the left wing in place of Heung-min Son, and the adjustments paid dividends. The Brazilian forward provided an assist for Brennan Johnson within the opening minute, energizing Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Pedro Porro also contributed, assisting James Maddison from a deeper position, as Tottenham largely controlled the match. Bodo/Glimt managed to score a late goal through Ulrik Saltnes. In the second half, Dominic Solanke scored a penalty for Tottenham, providing a crucial insurance goal. Although a two-goal lead is advantageous for the away leg, Tottenham`s defense has shown vulnerability at times this season, meaning they won`t take progression for granted. They are aiming to reach their first European final since 2019, where they lost to Liverpool, potentially setting up a similar all-English final encounter in Spain, though more work is needed to reach that stage.
Looking Ahead to the Second Legs
Tottenham travels to Norway to face Bodo/Glimt in the second leg at Aspyra Stadium on May 8th. The hosts will need an exceptional performance to overturn the two-goal deficit. Meanwhile, Manchester United returns home to Old Trafford holding a commanding three-goal lead, looking to secure their spot in the Europa League final by navigating the second leg.
Adrian Whitmore