Manchester United secured their spot in the Europa League final with a commanding 4-1 comeback win over Athletic Club, achieving a 7-1 aggregate triumph. The star of the show was Mason Mount, who silenced his critics with a brilliant performance, scoring twice to guide the Red Devils to victory.
A Nervy Start at Old Trafford
United entered the match with a comfortable lead from the first leg, but their composure quickly faltered. Athletic Club stunned the Old Trafford crowd by taking the lead in the 31st minute, as Mikel Jauregizar found the net after a defensive lapse from Harry Maguire. The goal rattled the home side, and for a while, United struggled to regain control.
The visitors pushed forward with confidence, sensing vulnerability in the United defense. However, manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical shift and substitutions changed the course of the game, injecting new energy into the team.
Mason Mount’s Spark Ignites the Comeback
The breakthrough for United came in the 55th minute, when Mason Mount produced a moment of magic. His curling strike from the edge of the box drew the Red Devils level and lifted the spirits of the fans. The goal had shades of Federico Macheda’s iconic winner against Aston Villa in 2009, reminding supporters of Mount’s undeniable talent.
With the scores now level on the night, United began to dominate possession and play with greater confidence. Mount’s equalizer was the turning point, and from then on, United looked like a completely different side.
Casemiro and Hojlund Extend the Lead
United didn’t take long to capitalize on their newfound momentum. In the 79th minute, Bruno Fernandes delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Casemiro rose highest to head it into the net, giving United a 2-1 lead. The Brazilian’s goal epitomized his aggressive and commanding style, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Just six minutes later, in the 85th minute, Rasmus Hojlund put the game beyond doubt with a close-range tap-in. Amad Diallo’s burst of pace down the right flank set up the chance, and Hojlund made no mistake, slotting the ball home to make it 3-1.
Mount Seals the Victory in Style
As the game entered injury time, Mount put the finishing touch on a perfect night. In the 90+1 minute, he spotted the Athletic goalkeeper off his line and executed an audacious long-range lob to complete his brace. The goal showcased his creativity and confidence, cementing his status as the game’s standout performer.
Ruben Amorim’s Tactical Brilliance
Credit must also go to manager Ruben Amorim, whose substitutions and tactical adjustments played a pivotal role in the turnaround. Bringing on Luke Shaw and Amad Diallo added stability and attacking threat, while allowing Mount to operate in a freer, more creative role. Amorim’s vision and proactive management ensured United’s dominance in the second half.
A Final to Look Forward To
With this emphatic victory, Manchester United set up an all-English Europa League final against Tottenham at San Mames. Both teams have endured mixed seasons, but the final presents an opportunity for redemption and a shot at Champions League qualification.
For United, the resurgence of Mason Mount could not have come at a better time. His performance against Athletic Club serves as a reminder of his quality and the reason why the club invested heavily in him. As the team prepares for the final, the focus will be on maintaining this newfound form and capitalizing on their chance to end the season with silverware.
A Night to Remember
Manchester United’s remarkable 4-1 victory over Athletic Club (7-1 on aggregate) will be remembered as a defining moment in their campaign. The combination of Mount’s brilliance, Amorim’s tactical acumen, and the squad’s fighting spirit ensured their path to the final. Now, they look ahead with optimism and determination to bring the Europa League trophy back to Old Trafford.
