Bruno Fernandes delivered a masterclass performance, scoring a hat-trick to lead Manchester United to a commanding 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad, securing their place in the Europa League quarterfinals.
The Red Devils advanced with a 5-2 aggregate score, setting up an enticing clash with Lyon in the next round.
Fernandes converted two penalties before completing his hat-trick in the 87th minute, while Diogo Dalot added a fourth goal in stoppage time.
Despite an early setback when Mikel Oyarzabal scored a penalty for Sociedad, United capitalized on a red card for Jon Aramburu in the 63rd minute to dominate the match.
“It was a good performance. The physicality was there,” United manager Ruben Amorim remarked post-match. “Even without the sending off, you felt that the team was going to win this game.”
In London, Tottenham Hotspur also secured their quarterfinal spot with a 3-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar, advancing 3-2 on aggregate. Wilson Odobert shone with two goals, including a decisive strike in the 74th minute, while James Maddison added another to ensure Spurs’ progression.
Manager Ange Postecoglou praised his team’s resilience, stating, “It got a bit nervy towards the end, but we thoroughly deserved to progress.”
Elsewhere, Lyon, Rangers, Lazio, and Athletic Bilbao joined the Premier League clubs in the last eight. Lyon cruised past FCSB with a 7-1 aggregate win, while Rangers edged Fenerbahce in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Athletic Bilbao overcame Roma 3-1, capitalizing on a red card for Mats Hummels in the 11th minute.
Lazio advanced with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Viktoria Plzen, and Eintracht Frankfurt dismantled Ajax 6-2 across two legs. The quarterfinal lineup promises thrilling encounters as Europe’s top clubs vie for the coveted trophy.
