Manchester United travel to Spain to take on La Liga side Athletic Bilbao in the first leg semifinals of the UEFA Europa League, scheduled for Thursday, May 1st, 2025, at the San Mames Stadium. Africa Foot expert Allan Damba provides his insight on the upcoming European night.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Match PreviewÂ
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Athletic Bilbao reached this stage by eliminating Scottish Premier League giants Rangers FC, following a 2-0 aggregate victory. The first leg ended 0-0 in Scotland, before Bilbao sealed the tie at home with goals from Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams.
Meanwhile, Manchester United edged past Olympique Lyon in a dramatic quarterfinal, winning 7-6 on aggregate. After a 2-2 draw in the first leg, the Red Devils emerged victorious with a thrilling 5-4 second-leg win at Old Trafford.
Athletic Bilbao Recent Form Analysis
Athletic Bilbao have been solid recently, winning three, drawing once, and losing once across their last five matches in all competitions. Ernesto Valverde’s side scored six goals and conceded only two during that stretch.
- Last Five Games: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss
- Latest Results: Athletic Bilbao 1-0 Las Palmas
Manchester United Recent Form Analysis
Manchester United have struggled for consistency lately, winning just one of their last five matches across all competitions. They have also drawn twice and suffered two defeats, conceding a worrying 12 goals while scoring nine.
- Last Five Games: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses
- Latest Results: AFC Bournemouth 1-1 Manchester United
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Head-to-Head Record
- Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Manchester United
- Manchester United 2-3 Athletic Bilbao
- Athletic Bilbao 0-1 Manchester United
- Manchester United 3-0 Athletic Bilbao
- Athletic Bilbao 5-3 Manchester United
Our Prediction for Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United
This semifinal clash promises fireworks, with both sides desperate to move closer to silverware. Athletic Bilbao’s strong home record and United’s defensive frailties suggest an exciting encounter.
We recommend backing Both Teams to Score (YES) at odds of 1.87 on 1xBet. Alternatively, punters can bet on Double Chance (1X) at odds of 1.27 on 1xBet.
Player to Watch
Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao):
The Ghanaian forward scored the winner at the weekend against Las Palmas, taking his tally to 11 goals and 10 assists across 46 matches this season. Williams will be key to Bilbao’s chances of taking a first-leg advantage.
Athletic Bilbao vs Manchester United Best Odds and Betting Tips
- Both Teams to Score (YES) – 1.87 on 1xBet
- Double Chance (1X) – 1.27 on 1xBet
