Man United spank Bilbao to book final spot

Man United delivered a dominant performance at Old Trafford on Thursday night, defeating Spain’s Athletic Bilbao 4–1 in the second leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final.

The win gave United a commanding 7–1 aggregate victory, securing a much-anticipated all-English final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Despite a comfortable 3–0 lead from the first leg, United were given a scare early in the game when Mikel Jauregizar scored a sensational goal to give the visitors a brief glimmer of hope. The strike injected energy into Bilbao, who pushed United onto the back foot for much of the first half.

But Erik ten Hag’s side came alive after a series of second-half changes, particularly with the introduction of Mason Mount and Amad Diallo.

Mount, who has endured a quiet spell since his high-profile move from Chelsea, made an immediate impact by scoring in the 72nd minute with a slick turn and shot into the far corner.

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Moments later, Casemiro powered home a header from a pinpoint Bruno Fernandes cross, putting the tie firmly beyond Bilbao’s reach. Rasmus Højlund then added a third, finishing from close range after sustained pressure.

Mount capped off the night with a remarkable second goal in stoppage time, catching Bilbao goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala off his line and firing home from near the halfway mark—a goal likely to feature in highlight reels for years to come.

Despite a poor domestic season that sees them languishing in 15th place in the Premier League, United now have the chance to end their campaign with European silverware.

Their opponents, Tottenham Hotspur, secured their place in the final earlier on Thursday with a 2–0 win over Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt, completing a 5–1 aggregate victory.

The Europa League final will be played in Bilbao on May 21, promising an electric showdown between two Premier League giants desperate to salvage pride after disappointing league performances.

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