Manchester United were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League last-16 tie on March 6, 2025. The match, played at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián, was a tense affair, with both teams having their moments but ultimately failing to take full control. With the second leg set for March 13 at Old Trafford, everything is still to play for as Erik ten Hag’s side looks to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Zirkzee Breaks the Deadlock
The first half was a tight and cagey contest, with both teams showing respect for each other’s attacking potential. United, despite missing several key players due to injuries, looked composed in possession, while Real Sociedad attempted to exploit spaces with quick counter-attacks. However, neither side managed to create clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes, with Sociedad’s best effort coming from a long-range strike by Takefusa Kubo that was comfortably saved by André Onana.
United finally broke the deadlock in the 57th minute through Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker, who has been growing in confidence under Erik ten Hag, produced a moment of individual brilliance. Bruno Fernandes played a clever through-ball to Alejandro Garnacho, who squared it to Zirkzee at the edge of the box. The striker took one touch to set himself before curling a precise shot past Sociedad goalkeeper Álex Remiro, sending the United supporters in the away section into celebration.
Zirkzee’s goal was a testament to his growing importance in the team, especially in the absence of key attacking figures. His composure in front of goal highlighted why United invested in him, and Ten Hag will be hoping he can continue delivering in crucial moments.
Sociedad’s Late Equalizer
Despite falling behind, Real Sociedad did not let their intensity drop. The Spanish side, known for their technical style and patient build-up play, began to control possession and push United deeper into their half. United’s defense, marshaled by Raphaël Varane and Lisandro Martínez, initially held firm, but Sociedad’s relentless pressure eventually paid off in the 81st minute.
The moment of controversy came when a cross into the box struck Bruno Fernandes’ arm, and after a brief VAR check, the referee pointed to the penalty spot. The decision sparked protests from the United players, who argued that Fernandes’ arm was in a natural position. However, the referee remained firm, and Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up to take the penalty.
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Oyarzabal, who has been Sociedad’s reliable penalty taker for years, showed no nerves as he calmly sent Onana the wrong way, slotting the ball into the bottom corner to level the score at 1-1. The home crowd erupted in celebration, sensing that their team had regained momentum heading into the final minutes.
Missed Chances and a Nervy Finish
The final ten minutes saw both teams push for a winner, but neither could capitalize on their chances. Sociedad nearly grabbed a dramatic victory in stoppage time when substitute Orri Óskarsson found space inside the box and fired a powerful shot towards goal. However, Onana made a crucial reflex save to deny Sociedad what would have been a heartbreaking defeat for United.
On the other end, Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund had opportunities to snatch a late winner, but their efforts were either blocked by Sociedad’s defense or saved by Remiro. Rashford, in particular, had a golden opportunity in the dying moments but failed to get enough power behind his shot after being played through by Fernandes.
Second Leg Showdown at Old Trafford
With the tie evenly poised at 1-1, both teams will go into the second leg knowing that a win will guarantee progression to the Europa League quarter-finals. Manchester United will have the advantage of playing at home, where they will expect a raucous Old Trafford crowd to drive them forward.
However, Real Sociedad have shown that they are more than capable of competing at this level, and their disciplined performance in the first leg will give them confidence that they can pull off a result in Manchester. United will need to be more clinical in front of goal and avoid costly mistakes if they want to avoid an early exit from the competition.
Erik ten Hag will also be hoping to have some of his injured players back for the second leg, as squad depth could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the tie. With United’s season riding on their success in Europe, a strong performance at Old Trafford is imperative.
Can United finish the job at home, or will Sociedad spring a surprise? The stage is set for an exciting night of European football on March 13, with both teams determined to book their place in the next round.
