On May 9, 2025, Manchester United secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the second leg of the Europa League semi-final, advancing to the final with an aggregate score of 7-1. Despite holding a 3-0 advantage from the first leg, United fielded a strong lineup and exhibited determination in front of their home crowd at Old Trafford.
The match took an unexpected turn when Athletic Bilbao's Mikel Jauregizar unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, finding the net in the 31st minute and giving the visitors a glimmer of hope. However, Manchester United, under the guidance of coach Ruben Amorim, remained unfazed.
As the second half unfolded, United made crucial substitutions, including the introduction of Mason Mount in the 62nd minute. Mount wasted no time in making an impact, scoring the equalizer in the 72nd minute after a well-placed pass from Leny Yoro. His clinical finish drew the score level at 1-1, shifting the momentum firmly in United's favor.
In the 80th minute, Casemiro showcased his aerial prowess by scoring with a deft header from a Bruno Fernandes free-kick, putting United ahead 2-1. Despite receiving a yellow card earlier for a foul, the Brazilian midfielder demonstrated his class in set-piece situations.
Just five minutes later, Rasmus Hojlund extended United's lead to 3-1, tapping in from close range after a precise cross from Amad Diallo. Bilbao's spirits began to wane as the match progressed, with tensions rising and players receiving yellow cards for reckless challenges.
The final blow came in the 90+1 minute when Mason Mount capitalized on a mistake by the Bilbao goalkeeper, intercepting the ball and calmly slotting it home to seal a 4-1 victory for United.
This semi-final clash not only highlighted Manchester United's dominance but also marked a significant resurgence for Mason Mount, who had faced scrutiny regarding his form earlier in the season. With a total score of 7-1 over the two legs, the Red Devils are now set to face Tottenham in the Europa League final on May 22, 2025.
Tottenham also advanced to the final after a convincing 5-1 aggregate victory over Bodo Glimt, winning 3-1 in the first leg and 2-0 in the return fixture. Both teams find themselves in a challenging position in the Premier League, with Manchester United sitting in 15th place and Tottenham in 16th. The Europa League offers both clubs a chance at redemption and a coveted spot in next season's Champions League.
As the final approaches, Manchester United's coach Ruben Amorim remains optimistic despite his side's struggles against Tottenham in the league this season, having lost all three encounters. "We can win against Tottenham in the Europa League. This is a final, and it’s different from the Premier League," he stated confidently.
Amorim emphasized the importance of having a full squad, maintaining form, and playing with sharpness, alongside a bit of luck. He noted, "We’ve shown a fighting spirit in the Europa League, and if we can channel that energy, we deserve to be in the final."
With the stakes high and both teams eager to lift the trophy, fans can expect an exhilarating showdown at the San Mamés stadium. The match is scheduled to kick off at 2:00 AM on May 22, 2025, and promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of England's most storied clubs.
