The first leg of the Europa League last-16 clash between Real Sociedad and Manchester United ended in a 1-1 draw at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián. Manchester United, viewing the Europa League as their most realistic pathway to Champions League qualification after a disappointing domestic season, took the lead through Joshua Zirkzee’s first goal in five games. However, their advantage was short-lived as Bruno Fernandes conceded a penalty for handball, allowing Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal to equalize from the spot. The hosts pushed for a late winner, creating several promising opportunities, but ultimately failed to capitalize, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.
Both teams entered the match facing challenges. Manchester United, languishing in 14th place in the Premier League and eliminated from other cup competitions, were hampered by an injury crisis, with several key players unavailable. Real Sociedad, while positioned higher in La Liga, also experienced a challenging domestic season and were missing key midfielder Martín Zubimendi through injury. The first half reflected these difficulties, with neither side demonstrating attacking fluency or creating clear-cut chances. Manchester United edged the opening 45 minutes with a few blocked shots but failed to truly test Real Sociedad goalkeeper Álex Remiro.
The second half saw a noticeable increase in tempo and attacking intent. Manchester United, spurred by the urgency of their situation, began to create more opportunities, and their pressure eventually paid off. Alejandro Garnacho’s cross found Zirkzee, who bundled the ball home despite Remiro’s efforts. This goal momentarily lifted the gloom surrounding United, who had seen their young striker Rasmus Højlund extend his goalless streak to 19 matches. However, their lead was fragile, and Real Sociedad, bolstered by the return of key players from suspension and injury, began to find their rhythm.
Real Sociedad’s equalizer arrived through a penalty awarded for Fernandes’ handball while attempting to clear a corner. Oyarzabal, the hero of Spain’s Euro 2024 final victory, stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick, sending Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana the wrong way. This goal marked a turning point in the match, injecting renewed energy into the home side and unsettling Manchester United. Real Sociedad, now sensing the possibility of victory, pressed forward and created several late chances. Orri Oskarsson had two golden opportunities to secure a first-leg advantage but failed to convert, leaving the tie delicately poised.
The draw leaves both teams with everything to play for in the second leg at Old Trafford. Manchester United, despite the setback of conceding the equalizer, will be encouraged by their away goal and the prospect of playing in front of their home crowd. However, Real Sociedad, buoyed by their late surge and the knowledge that a win or a high-scoring draw could see them progress, will travel to Manchester with confidence. For Real Sociedad, the added incentive of the Europa League final being held at their rivals Athletic Bilbao’s stadium, San Mamés, adds another layer of motivation to their quest for European glory.
This evenly matched encounter underscores the unpredictable nature of the Europa League. Both teams, despite their domestic struggles, harbour ambitions of European success and see this competition as a potential route to silverware. Manchester United, under pressure to salvage their season, will be desperate to secure a victory at Old Trafford and advance to the quarter-finals. Real Sociedad, equally eager to progress, will aim to exploit any vulnerabilities in the United defence and capitalize on their set-piece prowess. The second leg promises to be a tense and closely fought affair, with the winner facing either Lyon or FCSB in the next round. The tie remains wide open, and the final outcome will likely hinge on fine margins and key moments in the decisive second leg.
