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Europa League Semi-Final Preview: Man United vs Bilbao, Spurs vs Bodø/Glimt

Dalot and Garnacho celebrating against Lyon. Image Credits: @EuropaLeague/X

Manchester United vs. Athletic Bilbao

The first semifinal of the Europa League will see Manchester United take on Athletic Bilbao. Manchester United’s path to the semi-finals included a dramatic comeback against Lyon.

A match that seemed like it was in the bag was taken away from the Red Devils, but the sheer determination of the squad saw them dramatically rescue themselves.

Harry Maguire with a late winner for Manchester United in the Europa League. Image Credits: @premierleague/X

They will face Athletic Bilbao, a team known for its tactical discipline and strong defensive record. 

Athletic Bilbao have been one of the standout sides in European football this season, balancing strong domestic performances with an impressive Europa League run. 

Known for their physical style and deep-rooted identity of fielding only Basque players, the club has combined discipline with attacking flair throughout the tournament.

After progressing confidently from the group stage, Bilbao eliminated tough opponents on their way to the semifinals, including a dramatic victory against Roma in the quarter-finals. 

The return of form from veterans like Iñaki Williams and the emergence of young talents have boosted their squad depth and belief. With their rich history and passionate fanbase, Bilbao are dreaming of European glory, and their journey so far shows they are more than capable of going all the way.

The first leg is set for May 1, with the return leg on May 8.​

Tottenham vs. Bodø/Glimt

Tottenham have shown determination and growth throughout their Europa League campaign this season. After comfortably advancing from the group stage, they faced stiff competition in the knockout rounds. 

One of their most notable performances came against Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals, where they edged a 2-1 aggregate win.

A solid first-leg display at home gave them the upper hand, and they held firm in Germany to secure qualification. 

Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke celebrating his goal against Frankfurt. Image credits: @premierleague/X

Throughout the tournament, Spurs have relied on key players like Son Heung-min and Brennan Johson to provide attacking spark, while their defense has remained disciplined under pressure. Now in the semifinals, Tottenham will look to carry this momentum forward as they chase a major European trophy.

Meanwhile, Bodø/Glimt have become one of the Europa League’s most surprising stories this season.

The Norwegian club reached the semi-finals for the first time in their history, making them just the second Norwegian side ever to make it this far in a major European competition—after Rosenborg’s run in the Champions League during the late 90s.

Their path has been anything but easy. After topping a tough group that included Marseille and Freiburg, Bodø/Glimt shocked the football world by knocking out Lazio in the quarter-finals.

The tie ended 3-3 on aggregate, but the Norwegian side held their nerve to win on penalties in Rome, an achievement that will go down as one of the greatest in the club’s history.

Led by a young and dynamic squad with a fearless playing style, Bodø/Glimt’s rise has gained the attention of many football lovers across Europe. Their ability to press aggressively and break quickly in transition makes them dangerous opponents for Tottenham

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