Manchester United took a huge step towards the Europa League final with a dominant 3-0 win over Athletic Club in Bilbao.
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes both found the back of the net, with Fernandes converting a penalty and scoring a brilliant second before the break.
Early Advantage and a Man-Down Athletic Club
The match had a tense start, but United quickly gained control.
Casemiro opened the scoring, and things took a turn for the worse for the hosts when Dani Vivian was sent off for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund.
With the man advantage, United capitalized, with Fernandes coolly slotting home from the penalty spot.
He then added a stunning second goal, giving United a three-goal lead by halftime.
The visitors held firm in the second half to secure a commanding advantage heading back to Old Trafford.
Rio Ferdinand Praises Casemiro’s Leadership
While the whole team performed admirably, it was Casemiro who caught the eye of former United defender Rio Ferdinand.
On commentary for TNT Sports, Ferdinand was full of praise for the Brazilian’s contribution. “I don’t think Casemiro has put a foot wrong.
He’s been sensational tonight. He has been so disciplined,” Ferdinand said.
Despite recent talk about his age and whether his best days were behind him, Ferdinand emphasized how Casemiro had risen to the occasion.
“He’s come to the fore when they have needed him,” he continued, highlighting the Brazilian’s crucial role in United’s strong performance.
Casemiro’s Experience Shines Through
Casemiro’s influence on the pitch was undeniable, especially in the second half.
As the game progressed, he took charge of the midfield, guiding his teammates with the leadership he developed during his time at Real Madrid.
His ability to control the tempo and direct play was key to United’s dominance, with the 31-year-old providing stability and experience when his team needed it most.
Robbie Savage Credits Tactical Change for Casemiro’s Improved Performance
Former Wales international Robbie Savage suggested that a tactical shift in Casemiro’s role was crucial to his recent form.
“They were trying to play through him. But he’s more facing the game now, he knows what he’s doing,” Savage remarked.
Instead of receiving the ball with his back to goal, which often invited pressure, Casemiro is now positioned to face the game and make quicker, more effective decisions.
Ferdinand also supported this view, explaining that United’s tactical setup now allows Casemiro to operate in a more comfortable position.
“They’re not trying to play through him like a pivot where he’s got his back to things and he can be pressed and lose the ball.
That’s not his game,” Ferdinand said. “This makes it simpler for him, and they’re giving him the support he needs to avoid being exposed physically.”
Next Up: Brentford and Return Leg Against Athletic Club
With a solid three-goal advantage, United will now look to finish the job at Old Trafford next week.
But before that, they will face Brentford in the Premier League, who secured a win over Nottingham Forest on Thursday.
United’s focus will be on continuing their strong form in both competitions as they push towards the season’s crucial final stages.