Soccer-Blistering first-half display helps Man United earn stunning victory in Bilbao

Soccer Football - Europa League - Semi Final - First Leg - Athletic Bilbao v Manchester United - San Mames, Bilbao, Spain - May 1, 2025 Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes celebrates scoring their third goal Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

BILBAO, Spain (Reuters) -Three first-half goals helped Manchester United put themselves on the cusp of the Europa League final on Thursday, with the Premier League side earning a 3-0 semi-final first leg win away at Athletic Bilbao.

In a raucous San Memes atmosphere, with supporters dreaming of a first-ever European trophy, veteran midfielder Casemiro arrived at the back post to give the visitors the lead 30 minutes in.