Joshua Zirkzee netted his first European goal for Manchester United, but the English side was forced to settle for a draw against Real Sociedad, leaving their Europa League last-16 encounter finely poised.
The Dutch striker fired the visitors in front 12 minutes into the second half with a precise low shot from the edge of the area that caught Alex Remiro off guard. However, the Spanish side responded through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty, which was awarded following a VAR review for a handball by Bruno Fernandes.
Manchester United controlled proceedings for nearly an hour, with goalkeeper Andre Onana untested until the hosts were awarded their penalty. Fernandes came close to doubling United’s lead before the break, seeing one attempt cleared off the line by Aritz Elustondo and another free-kick narrowly missing the target.
After Sociedad equalized, United lost some of their momentum. Onana was called into action to parry a curling effort from Brais Mendez, while Orri Oskarsson squandered two late opportunities – first poking wide from close range and later forcing a strong save from Onana deep into stoppage time.
“One thing is certain – they are eager to score and win,” said United manager Ruben Amorim. “They are giving their all, but sometimes their decision-making needs improvement.”
The second leg is set for Thursday, March 13, at Old Trafford.
United’s European journey offers hope
Despite the frustration of conceding an equaliser, Manchester United will remain optimistic about their chances of progressing to the next round, particularly with home advantage in the return fixture.
With their FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham following a penalty shootout last weekend, the Europa League represents their only remaining path to silverware this season. Although the campaign has fallen short of expectations, their European form has been a bright spot.
United have remained unbeaten in Europe this season, winning five of their nine matches while drawing four. Their 16 goals in the League Phase placed them among the highest scorers, behind only Galatasaray, Lazio, and Tottenham Hotspur.
This match proved to be a tale of two halves. United looked assured for large spells but found themselves in danger of defeat after Sociedad’s equalizer. If the Spanish side fails to progress next week, Oskarsson may reflect on his missed chances late in the game.
Onana’s sharp reflexes denied the Icelandic striker at the death, but his earlier miss from six yards out was a moment he will likely regret. The tie remains delicately balanced as both teams prepare for the decisive second leg in Manchester.
