In this match, Real Sociedad opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a penalty goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. However, Manchester United quickly responded, with captain Bruno Fernandes scoring two penalties in the 16th and 50th minutes. Fernandes later added a third goal in the 87th minute, giving his team a commanding lead. The final goal was scored by Diogo Dalot in injury time, sealing United’s victory.
The match was marked by the use of VAR, which confirmed Manchester United’s two penalties and led to a red card for Real Sociedad's Jon Aramburu following a foul on Patrick Dorgu.
Speaking to the media, Manchester United's Portuguese coach, Ruben Amorim, stated that this competition would give his players extra motivation to finish the season differently than people expected.
Amorim also praised captain Bruno Fernandes for his outstanding performance, saying “We know he gets frustrated when things don’t go well. We know he has a strong desire to win. Sometimes, when we are not playing well, he changes his position to get the ball. At times, he needs to trust his teammates more so they can do their job and help him play better.”
He continued “But whenever we need him, he is always there. He can adapt his position, drive the ball forward, score goals, and provide crucial assists like he did today.
"In the last 10 minutes of the game, he can even play as an attacker or a defender. He is an excellent captain for us. We need to help him win trophies because he is an exceptional player.”
Bruno Fernandes was named Man of the Match after scoring a hat-trick, his second for Manchester United. His leadership on the field further reinforced his role as a great captain.
Other players also delivered strong performances, including Patrick Dorgu, who was highly energetic on the left flank, won the second penalty, and played a role in Jon Aramburu’s red card. Joshua Zirkzee also impressed, providing the pass that led to Real Sociedad’s red card and playing a key role in midfield.
Recently, Manchester United announced plans to build a new stadium with a capacity of over 100,000 spectators. The club’s Chief Sports Officer, Omar Berrada, confirmed that despite this project, financial support for Ruben Amorim to sign new players and strengthen the squad will continue.
Manchester United will face Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals after the French side eliminated FCSB with a 7-1 aggregate score.