Manchester United took a crucial away lead in their Europa League Round of 16 first-leg clash against Real Sociedad, but a controversial penalty saw the Spanish side equalize, leaving the tie delicately balanced.
The game at the Anoeta Stadium on March 6, 2025, was a tense affair, with both teams showing attacking intent. After a goalless first half, United finally broke the deadlock in the 57th minute. Joshua Zirkzee, starting as the lone striker, finished off a well-worked move orchestrated by Diogo Dalot and Alejandro Garnacho. Zirkzee’s composed finish past Alex Remiro capped off a dominant spell for the visitors.
Manchester United looked in control for much of the match, pressing Sociedad high and limiting their attacking opportunities. However, a moment of misfortune changed the tide when Bruno Fernandes was penalized for a handball inside the box.
Oyarzabal Converts from the Spot to Level the Score
Sociedad, who had struggled to break down United’s defense, found a way back in the 70th minute through a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal. The Spanish forward, known for his composure under pressure, confidently sent André Onana the wrong way to restore parity.
The penalty decision sparked frustration among Manchester United players, with Fernandes arguing that the handball was unavoidable. Nevertheless, referee Marco Guida stood by the decision after a VAR review. Sociedad, buoyed by their equalizer, pressed forward in the final stages, creating a few dangerous chances.
Orri Óskarsson came closest to winning it for Sociedad, first missing a golden opportunity from six yards and later forcing a strong save from Onana in stoppage time. Manchester United, however, held firm to ensure the tie remains finely poised heading into the second leg.
Zirkzee: “We Should Have Had One More”
Speaking after the game, Joshua Zirkzee expressed his disappointment, believing Manchester United had done enough to win.
“There was more here for us tonight,” Zirkzee told TNT Sports. “We were unlucky with the penalty. You have to be relentless with your chances, and we had enough of them. We should at least have had one more goal.”
Despite the frustration, Zirkzee remained optimistic about the second leg. “They have to come to Old Trafford, and we will be better than we were today. We just have to win, and that’s all that matters.”
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim echoed similar sentiments, praising his team’s overall performance but acknowledging the need to be more clinical. “We controlled large portions of the game, but we let Sociedad back in. At Old Trafford, we must make sure we finish our chances.”
Second Leg at Old Trafford: A Must-Win for Manchester United
With the tie delicately balanced, Manchester United will look to capitalize on home advantage when they welcome Sociedad to Old Trafford on March 13.
A victory would not only secure their place in the Europa League quarter-finals but also provide a much-needed boost amid an inconsistent domestic season. With their hopes of finishing in the Premier League top four hanging by a thread, winning the Europa League could be United’s best route to Champions League qualification.
Their potential quarter-final opponent will be the winner of the Steaua București vs. Olympique Lyonnais tie. Lyon currently hold the upper hand after securing a 3-1 victory in the first leg in Bucharest, thanks to a late brace from Malick Fofana.
Oyarzabal Haunts English Fans Once Again
For English football fans, Mikel Oyarzabal is becoming a familiar villain. The Spanish forward, who scored the winning goal in the Euro 2024 final to break England’s hearts, once again proved decisive against an English side.
His calm penalty conversion against Manchester United was a reminder of the composure he displayed at Wembley eight months ago. Sociedad’s star man will be a key figure in the return leg as they look to cause an upset at Old Trafford.
Manchester United, however, will take confidence from their unbeaten European record this season. With their European hopes still alive, Amorim’s men must deliver a strong performance next week to keep their dream of lifting the trophy in Bilbao on May 21 alive.
