Manchester United, Tottenham Advance in Europa League Semifinals

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur took commanding leads in their Europa League semi-final first legs, boosting their chances of reaching the final and potentially salvaging disappointing domestic seasons. Manchester United defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-0 away, helped by Casemiro's opener, a penalty and a second goal from Bruno Fernandes, and the dismissal of Bilbao's Daniel Vivian that left the hosts with ten men. The result puts United, who have struggled in the Premier League, within reach of both the Europa League final and Champions League qualification. Tottenham overcame Bodo/Glimt 3-1 at home, with early goals from Brennan Johnson and James Maddison, and a penalty from Dominic Solanke sealing the win, despite a late reply from Bodo/Glimt. Both English teams now hold significant advantages heading into the second legs of their respective ties. Meanwhile, Chelsea are also close to a European final after a convincing Conference League win over Djurgarden.