Manchester United delivered a commanding performance at Old Trafford to secure their place in the Europa League quarterfinals, defeating Real Sociedad 4-1 in the second leg of their Round of 16 clash. The Red Devils, led by a sensational hat-trick from Bruno Fernandes, overturned a tense first-leg draw to claim a 5-2 aggregate victory.
Bruno Fernandes Shines in Europa League Triumph
Bruno Fernandes was the star of the night, scoring three goals to guide Manchester United to a much-needed win. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg in San Sebastian, the pressure was on United to deliver at home. Fernandes’ leadership and clinical finishing proved decisive as the Red Devils dominated the Spanish side.
The match began with Real Sociedad taking an early lead through a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty, but Fernandes quickly equalized with a spot-kick of his own. From that moment, United took control, with Fernandes adding another penalty and a late goal to complete his hat-trick. Diogo Dalot added a fourth in stoppage time to seal the victory.
Manchester United vs Real Sociedad: Key Moments
Early Drama and Penalty Decisions
The game started with high intensity as Real Sociedad were awarded a penalty after a VAR review deemed Matthijs de Ligt to have fouled Oyarzabal. The Sociedad captain converted confidently, giving the visitors a brief lead.
However, United responded swiftly. Rasmus Hojlund was brought down in the box, and Fernandes stepped up to equalize with a composed penalty. This goal shifted the momentum in United’s favor, and they never looked back.
Fernandes’ Second Penalty and Red Card Drama
Early in the second half, United were awarded another penalty after Patrick Dorgu was fouled. Fernandes once again made no mistake, putting United ahead. The game took a decisive turn when Sociedad’s Jon Aramburu was shown a red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, leaving the visitors with ten men.
Late Goals Seal the Victory
With Sociedad down to ten players, United capitalized on their numerical advantage. Fernandes completed his hat-trick with a well-placed finish after a quick counterattack. In stoppage time, Hojlund’s brilliant skill set up Dalot, who smashed the ball into the net to make it 4-1.
What This Win Means for Manchester United
This victory not only secured Manchester United’s place in the Europa League quarterfinals but also provided a much-needed boost to their season. The Europa League remains their best chance to secure silverware and qualify for European competition next season.
Manager Ruben Amorim praised his team’s performance, highlighting Fernandes’ leadership and the contributions of young players like Ayden Heaven, who made his first start in defense.
FAQs
Who scored for Manchester United against Real Sociedad?
Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick, and Diogo Dalot added a late goal in Manchester United’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad.
What was the aggregate score of the tie?
Manchester United won the tie 5-2 on aggregate after a 1-1 draw in the first leg and a 4-1 victory in the second leg.
Who will Manchester United face in the quarterfinals?
Manchester United will face either Olympique Lyon or FCSB in the Europa League quarterfinals.
How did Real Sociedad perform in the match?
Real Sociedad started strong with an early penalty but struggled after going down to ten men in the second half.
Manchester United’s emphatic win over Real Sociedad showcased their potential to go far in the Europa League. With Bruno Fernandes in top form and a solid team performance, the Red Devils will look to build on this momentum in the quarterfinals.
— Follow @CenterOfGoals (@NganTrent11118) March 13, 2025
