Real Sociedad vs Manchester United Report

Scorers: Oyarzabal 70’ (P); Zirkzee 57’

Manchester United secured a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League (UEL) last 16 tie.

Despite extending their impressive European away form in Spain (W5, D3 in their last nine), the result leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.

Manchester United’s European Hopes Hang in the Balance

Following Sunday’s FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham via a penalty shootout, the UEL now represents Manchester United’s only realistic chance of silverware this season, as well as their best route to European qualification.

With this added pressure, the Red Devils made a bright start at the Reale Arena, with Alejandro Garnacho testing goalkeeper Álex Remiro inside the opening 15 minutes.

Ruben Amorim’s men continued to dominate in the first half, creating the better chances. Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee came close to breaking the deadlock, but Aritz Elustondo’s last-ditch defending denied them in quick succession.

As a result, United failed to find the net before half-time for the fifth time in their last six UEL outings.

Joshua Zirkzee Strikes First, But Sociedad Hit Back

Manchester United had another opportunity to take the lead early in the second half when Garnacho fired into the side-netting from a tight angle. However, their sustained pressure finally bore fruit in the 59th minute. Garnacho delivered a precise cutback, and Joshua Zirkzee expertly slotted home from the edge of the box, scoring his first-ever UEL goal to put the visitors ahead.

Their lead, however, was short-lived. Just over 10 minutes later, Real Sociedad levelled the contest from the penalty spot. Bruno Fernandes was penalised for a handball, and Mikel Oyarzabal confidently sent André Onana the wrong way to restore parity.

Late Sociedad Pressure Tests United’s Resilience

Buoyed by their equaliser, Real Sociedad pushed for a winner, forcing Manchester United into a defensive battle.

Brais Méndez’s long-range strike forced Onana into a full-stretch save, while Orri Óskarsson squandered a golden opportunity, poking his effort wide after receiving a pinpoint pass from Sheraldo Becker.

Óskarsson threatened again in stoppage time, drawing another crucial save from Onana. However, Manchester United held firm, ensuring they remain unbeaten in this season’s UEL campaign heading into next week’s decisive return leg at Old Trafford.

Conclusion: A Crucial Second Leg Awaits at Old Trafford

Manchester United will take confidence from their solid away performance but know they must deliver in front of their home crowd to secure progression. With the tie still in the balance, all eyes will be on Old Trafford for what promises to be a decisive clash in their European journey.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:
Real Sociedad vs Man Utd | UEFA Europa League 2024/25