Buzzapp Master 
Manchester United stormed into the Europa League final with a resounding 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford on Thursday, completing a 7-1 aggregate win and setting up a high-stakes final with Tottenham Hotspur.
The night began in electrifying fashion as fireworks lit up the sky and red smoke engulfed the Theatre of Dreams, following last week’s 3-0 away win over the 10-man Spanish side in Bilbao.
Manager Ruben Amorim made eight changes from the side that lost 4-3 to Brentford in the Premier League, reverting to the first-leg line-up as United looked to steady their faltering domestic season with European glory.
Read Also: Man United chase Europa League glory to salvage poor season
Despite their advantage, United endured a tense first half. Mikel Jauregizar stunned the home crowd with a brilliant long-range strike in the 31st minute, briefly reviving hopes for the injury-depleted visitors, who were without key players Nico and Inaki Williams and top scorer Oihan Sancet. Defender Dani Vivian was suspended following his red card in the first leg.
For much of the match, Bilbao appeared the more threatening side, controlling possession and carving out several chances, including efforts from Alex Berenguer that narrowly missed the target. However, United stayed patient and turned the tide late in the game.
Substitute Mason Mount restored calm with a well-taken goal in the 72nd minute, and United exploded into life from there. Casemiro, Rasmus Højlund, and Mount again found the net to seal a dominant second-leg result.
The win keeps United’s season alive, offering a golden opportunity to salvage silverware and secure a Champions League spot next season.
With the final set for May 22, United will now face Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, setting the stage for an all-English showdown in Europe’s second-tier competition.
= = == = = =
Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings