Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have taken significant steps towards a potential all-English Europa League final in Bilbao by winning the first legs of their respective semifinals. Both teams established comfortable leads before halftime and saw out their victories. Manchester United defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0, with key contributions from Harry Maguire and Casemiro, while James Maddison was instrumental in Tottenham`s 3-1 win against Bodo/Glimt.
For both clubs, currently positioned 14th (Manchester United) and 16th (Tottenham) in the Premier League according to this context, the Europa League represents a crucial opportunity to salvage their season. While Manchester United`s wait for silverware is not as lengthy as the 17-year spell Ange Postecoglou is said to be aiming to break, success in this European competition under their second manager of the season, Ruben Amorim, could indicate progress. Following Erik ten Hag`s departure, United have sought stability under Amorim, and their European form currently appears more promising than their domestic league performance.
Here are the results from the first leg ties:
Europa League First Leg Results
- Tottenham 3, Bodo Glimt 1
- Athletic Club 0, Manchester United 3
Manchester United`s Commanding Win
Manchester United quickly recovered after Alejandro Garnacho`s early goal was disallowed by VAR. The breakthrough came from an unexpected source: Harry Maguire advanced into the box, beating defenders before delivering a cross that found Manuel Ugarte, who headed it down for Casemiro to score the opener.
Shortly after, Athletic Club`s task became significantly harder when defender Dani Vivian received a red card for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund. Bruno Fernandes converted the resulting penalty and added a second goal from open play just before halftime. Reduced to ten men, Athletic offered little resistance, facing a difficult challenge for the return leg at Old Trafford.
Tottenham Takes Control at Home
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou made tactical adjustments, including starting Richarlison on the left in place of the absent Heung-min Son. These changes quickly paid dividends as the Brazilian provided an assist for Brennan Johnson`s goal in the opening minute, igniting the home crowd. Pedro Porro also contributed with an assist from deep, combining effectively with James Maddison as Tottenham largely dictated the play.
Although Bodo/Glimt pulled a goal back late through Ulrik Saltnes, which holds significance for the second leg in Norway, Tottenham secured a crucial insurance goal. A penalty scored by Dominic Solanke in the second half extended Spurs` lead. While a two-goal cushion away from home is advantageous, given Tottenham`s occasional defensive vulnerabilities this season, they will remain cautious. The club aims to reach its first European final since 2019, when they faced Liverpool in Spain – a potential parallel to this year`s final location and possible opponent, though progress is still required.
Looking Ahead: The Second Legs
Tottenham will travel to Norway for the return leg against Bodo/Glimt on May 8th. Playing at Aspyra stadium, Bodo/Glimt will need a significant performance to overcome the deficit in their first ever home European semifinal.
Meanwhile, Manchester United returns to Old Trafford, expecting to complete the job over 90 minutes and confirm their spot in the Europa League final. The matches can be viewed on Paramount+.
