The Heartbreaker: Mikel Oyarzabal’s memorable moments
No English football fan will forget the name Mikel Oyarzabal any time soon. He was the Spain striker who popped up with the late winner which broke Three Lions hearts in the Euro 2024 final. It was a moment of sheer brilliance and poise, as Oyarzabal’s clinical finish sealed Spain’s victory and left the English squad and fans devastated. Eight months later, Oyarzabal was at it again, this time in the Europa League, where he once more demonstrated his cool-headed nature by scoring a crucial penalty against Manchester United. This moment kept the tie tightly balanced, adding another layer of drama to an already thrilling contest.
United’s Redemption and Setback
Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring for Manchester United in Spain, marking a significant moment of redemption for the young forward. Just four days earlier, he had seen his final spot-kick saved by Bernd Leno in the FA Cup shootout against Fulham, resulting in United’s elimination. Zirkzee’s goal against Sociedad brought a smile to his face and a much-needed boost to United’s morale. Bruno Fernandes, however, had a less fortunate evening. He gave away a penalty for a handball which was awarded by VAR, leading to Oyarzabal’s equalizer from the spot. Despite the setback, Zirkzee’s goal provided a crucial lead on the hour mark, driven by a cross from Alejandro Garnacho. It was a moment of vindication for the Dutch forward, who had been through a harrowing experience just days before.
The Importance of the Europa League
For Manchester United, the Europa League has taken on a heightened significance. Manager Ruben Amorim has tried to downplay the stakes, but the reality is that winning this competition would be a lifeline for the club. A trophy would not only lift the gloom that has settled over Old Trafford but also secure a spot in the Champions League next season. For a club with United’s storied history, such a win would put a very different slant on a season that is in danger of becoming the worst since the club was relegated more than 50 years ago. The pressure is immense, and Amorim is acutely aware of the consequences. "I know the consequences," he has stated, "but I believe I am the right man for the job."
A Tough Road in Europe
Despite the numerous challenges this season, Manchester United have not lost a game in Europe, which is why they are among the favorites to go all the way to Bilbao on May 21. The importance of this match in San Sebastian was magnified by their recent FA Cup exit. Amorim had to field a depleted squad of just 18 players, with only five outfield players on the bench due to mounting injury problems. United’s form at home has been woeful, making it difficult to predict a favorable outcome. Yet, they managed to create the best opportunities in the first half, with Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund both missing prime chances. The lack of confidence and energy from Sociedad early on added to the sense that this was United’s chance to take control of the tie.
A Forgettable First Half
The first half was largely forgettable, with neither team displaying the form that would suggest a clear favorite. Garnacho had the first notable chance, cutting in but firing his shot straight at Sociedad’s keeper, Alex Remiro. Hojlund was visibly frustrated with Diogo Dalot for passing up a chance to set him up, instead opting to pass back to Garnacho. The Danish forward’s goal drought, stretching back to mid-December, seemed to highlight the team’s struggles. Sociedad, known for their solid performances in cup competitions, also lacked confidence and energy early on. Star player Martin Zubimendi, a target for both Arsenal and Liverpool, was absent due to illness, a significant loss that could impact the second leg of the tie.
The Second Half Drama
The second half brought more excitement, with both teams creating better chances. After the break, Takefusa Kubo’s cross was flicked on by Oyarzabal, but Leny Yoro made a crucial block. United continued to press, and Bruno Fernandes’ curling free-kick narrowly missed the target. Just before the hour mark, Garnacho delivered a perfect pass to Zirkzee on the edge of the box, and the young forward’s low shot found the back of the net. It was a moment of vindication for Zirkzee and a crucial lead for United. However, the VAR intervened, spotting a handball by Fernandes during a corner, leading to an Oyarzabal penalty that equalized the score. Sociedad almost snatched a late winner when Sheraldo Becker’s cross found Orri Oskarsson, but the latter’s effort went wide. The tie remains on a knife edge, leaving both teams with everything to play for in the return leg.
