The possibility of an all-Premier League Europa League final in Bilbao increased significantly after Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United won their respective semifinal first-leg ties. Both English sides established comfortable leads by halftime and maintained their advantage to secure victories. Manchester United defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0, with key contributions from Harry Maguire and Casemiro, while James Maddison starred as Tottenham beat Bodo/Glimt 3-1.
For both clubs, performing well in this competition offers a potential way to salvage disappointing domestic campaigns, as they currently sit 14th (Man Utd) and 16th (Spurs) in the Premier League. While Manchester United`s trophy wait isn`t as lengthy as the 17-year spell Ange Postecoglou hopes to break for Tottenham, securing the Europa League under their second manager of the season, Ruben Amorim, would signal progress. Since replacing Erik ten Hag, United have struggled for consistency domestically, making European success their potential saving grace.
Let`s review the first-leg results:
Europa League First Leg Results
- Tottenham 3, Bodo Glimt 1
- Athletic Club 0, Manchester United 3
Harry Maguire Shines for Manchester United
Manchester United reacted effectively after Alejandro Garnacho`s early goal was disallowed by VAR. The breakthrough came from an unexpected source: Harry Maguire. Advancing into the box, Maguire evaded defenders before delivering a superb cross, which Manuel Ugarte headed down for Casemiro to finish, securing the crucial opening goal.
Just five minutes later, Athletic Club were reduced to ten men when defender Dani Vivian received a red card for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund. Bruno Fernandes converted the resulting penalty and then added a second goal from open play just before halftime. Playing with a man disadvantage, Athletic struggled to pose a threat for the rest of the match, leaving them with a difficult task in the return leg at Old Trafford.
Tottenham`s Comfortable Home Win
Ange Postecoglou rotated his squad slightly, with Richarlison starting on the left wing in place of the absent Heung-min Son – a change that quickly paid dividends. The Brazilian set up Brennan Johnson for the opening goal within the first minute, electrifying Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Pedro Porro also contributed an assist from deep, combining with James Maddison, as Tottenham largely dominated proceedings.
Bodo/Glimt managed to pull a goal back late through Ulrik Saltnes, which remains significant given the second leg is in Norway. Dominic Solanke`s second-half penalty provided a crucial insurance goal. While a two-goal cushion away from home is preferable, Tottenham`s defensive inconsistencies this season mean they cannot afford complacency as they aim for their first European final since the 2019 Champions League final loss to Liverpool. The potential for a full-circle moment – another final in Spain against English opposition – exists, but more work is required to get there.
What`s Next
Looking ahead, Tottenham travels to Norway for the return leg against Bodo/Glimt at Aspyra stadium on May 8. The hosts face a significant challenge to overcome the first-leg deficit in what could be cold conditions. Manchester United will play the second leg at Old Trafford, where their supporters anticipate watching the team confirm their spot in the Europa League final.
