Manchester United will leave Spain feeling frustrated after a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Europa League knockout tie. The Red Devils dominated the match for nearly an hour, creating multiple chances and limiting the home side to scraps. However, a controversial penalty decision allowed Sociedad to snatch an equalizer, leaving United with work to do in the return leg at Old Trafford.
Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee put the visitors ahead in the 57th minute with a well-placed low strike from the edge of the box that deceived goalkeeper Alex Remiro. It was a deserved lead for Erik ten Hag’s men, who had been in control for most of the game. The visitors dictated play, with Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo orchestrating moves from midfield, while Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho caused problems down the flanks.
United nearly doubled their advantage in the first half when Fernandes saw his goal-bound effort cleared off the line by Aritz Elustondo. The captain also came close with a free-kick that curled just wide. Despite their dominance, a lack of cutting edge in front of goal left the visitors vulnerable to Sociedad’s counterattacks.
The turning point came in the 72nd minute when Sociedad were awarded a penalty after a VAR review deemed Fernandes guilty of handling the ball inside the box. It was a contentious decision, but Mikel Oyarzabal made no mistake from the spot, sending Andre Onana the wrong way to level the score.
The equalizer shifted the momentum in Sociedad’s favor. Onana, who had been largely untroubled until that point, was suddenly called into action multiple times. He produced a stunning save to deny Brais Mendez’s curling effort from 25 yards and was alert again in stoppage time to block Orri Oskarsson’s close-range strike. The late pressure from Sociedad could have cost United dearly, but they held on for a draw.
Second Leg at Old Trafford: A Decisive Night Awaits
Despite the disappointment of conceding late, Manchester United will still feel confident heading into the second leg at Old Trafford on March 13. Their dominance in Spain showed they have the quality to win the tie, but they must be more ruthless in front of goal. The return of Rasmus Højlund could be a crucial factor, as his physical presence and finishing ability have been sorely missed.
Defensively, United will need to stay alert and avoid lapses in concentration. The handball decision against Fernandes will serve as a reminder that even the smallest mistakes can be costly in European competitions. With their home crowd behind them, United will look to impose themselves early and ensure they take their chances.
Sociedad, on the other hand, will take confidence from their late surge in the first leg. They know that if they can frustrate United and remain disciplined, they have the quality to capitalize on any defensive errors. The second leg promises to be an intense battle, with both sides fighting for a place in the next round.
For Manchester United, progression in the Europa League remains crucial, not just for silverware but also as a potential route back into the Champions League. With the Premier League’s top-four race looking increasingly difficult, Ten Hag and his players must seize the opportunity and deliver a strong performance under the Old Trafford lights.
The stage is set for a thrilling second leg. Will United rise to the occasion, or will Sociedad pull off a shock in Manchester?