Tonight, Manchester United host Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford for the decisive second leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final. The Red Devils carry a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Bilbao, thanks to goals from Casemiro and a brace by Bruno Fernandes. Let’s look at the betting preview and prediction for this encounter.
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Betting Preview
Manchester United remain unbeaten in this season’s Europa League (W8 D5) and are chasing a place in the final without losing a single match – something only Chelsea have achieved among English clubs.
However, United’s domestic form has been dismal. A chaotic 4-3 loss to Brentford last weekend highlighted their struggles, with Amorim naming the youngest starting XI in Premier League history. Currently 15th in the table, they’ve already secured their lowest-ever points tally in the Premier League era and can finish no higher than 12th, making Europa League glory their only path to next season’s Champions League.
1.79
Manchester United vs Athletic Bilbao
Yes
Both teams to score
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
History favours them: all 133 teams who’ve won the away leg of a European tie by 3+ goals have progressed. United are also unbeaten in 11 straight Europa League games at Old Trafford.
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, haven’t reached a European final since 2012 and now face an uphill task. They’ve failed to score in six of their last nine games and are wobbling in the LaLiga top-four race. Manager Ernesto Valverde admits juggling multiple competitions is taking its toll. They’ll need a miracle in Manchester to become just the second team ever to overturn a 3+ goal first-leg home defeat in major European competition.
3.15
Manchester United vs Ahtletic Bilbao
Bruno fernandes
anytime goalscorer
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
Bilbao have lost seven of their nine away trips to English clubs but did famously beat United 3-2 at Old Trafford in 2012 – something they’ll hope to channel in this do-or-die clash.
Recent Form & Stats
Manchester United:
- Europa League: Unbeaten in 13 matches (8 wins, 5 draws).
- Premier League: Struggling domestically, currently 15th.
- Key Player: Bruno Fernandes – 7 Europa League goals, leading scorer.
Athletic Club:
- La Liga: 4th place, aiming for Champions League qualification.
- Europa League: Strong home performances but challenged away.
- Injuries: Missing key attackers, impacting offensive capabilities.
Best Bets & Predictions
Prediction: Manchester United to win at 2.00.
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score – Yes at 1.79.
Alternative Bet: Over 2.5 total goals at 1.98.
While United is favoured to progress, their defensive lapses could allow Athletic to score. Fernandes’ consistent contributions make him a strong candidate for goal involvement.
Manchester United is poised to secure a spot in the Europa League final, but must remain vigilant against a determined Athletic side seeking a historic comeback. The match promises excitement, with both teams eager to make their mark on the European stage.
