On Thursday, May 1, 2025, the UEFA Europa League semi-final first-leg matches took place, featuring Manchester United against Athletic Bilbao and Tottenham Hotspur against Bodø/Glimt.
⚽ Manchester United 3–0 Athletic Bilbao
Manchester United delivered a commanding performance at San Mamés, securing a 3–0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. The match was marred by a controversial red card for Bilbao’s Dani Vivian, who was sent off for pulling down Rasmus Højlund in the penalty area. Bruno Fernandes converted the ensuing penalty and added a second goal, while Harry Maguire contributed with a standout assist, earning him the affectionate nickname “Harrydinho” from fans and teammates .
Despite the heavy defeat, Athletic Bilbao captain Iñaki Williams expressed optimism, citing past European comebacks as inspiration for the return leg at Old Trafford.
⚽Tottenham Hotspur 3–1 Bodø/Glimt
Tottenham took control of their Europa League semi-final tie with a 3–1 win over Bodø/Glimt at home. Spurs dominated early, but a late goal from the Norwegian side keeps the contest alive heading into the second leg. Injury issues mount for Tottenham, with Lucas Bergvall out for the season and doubts over Solanke, Maddison, and Son Heung-min. Manager Ange Postecoglou praised his team’s performance but warned against complacency as they prepare for the decisive return leg in Norway on May 8.
❌Controversial Red Card and Penalty Incident in the Man United Vs Athletic Bilbao fixture:
In the first half, Athletic Bilbao’s Dani Vivian was sent off after a VAR review determined he had denied a clear goal-scoring opportunity by pulling down Rasmus Højlund. Bruno Fernandes converted the resulting penalty and added another goal shortly after. This sequence sparked debate, especially among Bilbao supporters, who felt the decision was harsh. Fernandes defended the referee’s call, stating that the rules clearly dictate a red card for such offenses when no attempt is made to play the ball.
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