First European goal for Joshua Zirkzee.
Image credit: Alex
Manchester United’s Europa League last-16 tie remains finely balanced after a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in Spain.
Joshua Zirkzee’s early strike was canceled out by a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty, setting up a tense return leg at Old Trafford next week.
Zirkzee Opens His European Account
United started brightly, with summer signing Joshua Zirkzee making his mark to make amends for his penalty miss in the FA cup.
The Dutch forward slotted home a well-taken goal in the first half, showcasing his finishing ability and giving Erik ten Hag’s side an early advantage.
Sociedad responded with urgency, testing United’s defense, but André Onana produced a couple of crucial saves to keep the hosts at bay.
Fernandes’ Handball Proves Costly
United looked in control until a moment of misfortune in the second half.
Captain Bruno Fernandes was penalized for a handball in the box, handing Sociedad a lifeline.
Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty, bringing the hosts level.
Sociedad continued to push forward, nearly grabbing a winner when Orri Óskarsson’s effort went inches wide.
United, on the other hand, struggled to create clear-cut chances in the closing stages.
What’s Next?
With the tie evenly poised at 1-1, Manchester United will look to capitalize on home advantage in the second leg at Old Trafford next week.
A place in the Europa League quarter-finals is at stake, and United must improve to ensure progression.
Stay tuned to Football Catchup for more updates on Manchester United’s European campaign.