Three first-half goals helped Manchester United reach the forefront of the Europa League final, and the Premier League team won a 3-0 semi-final in Sports Bilbao.
In Thursday's raucous San Memes atmosphere, supporters dream of the first ever European trophy, with veteran midfielder Casemiro reaching the back post, giving visitors a 30-minute lead.
Five minutes later, United suffered a tragic season at home, and another five minutes later, as Bilbao defender Daniel Vivian was sent to the free throw area to foul Rasmus Hojlund, while Bruno Fernandes switched the resulting live kick.
Senior Manchester United fans entered the dream after the highest level, as Captain Fernandez won the victory before the interval, perhaps even a tie.
Bilbao has more motivation, with the apex finals set to be held at his own stadium on May 21, and he was unable to respond with dry numbers in the second half, making United's promotion to the most unlikely first leg success.
"Of course, it's a good start, here to win and score three goals and score with clean sheets," United defender Harry Maguire told TNT Sports.
“All the pressure will bring to us and everyone will expect us to experience it. We need to be prepared right and if we do, we will give ourselves a good opportunity.
“One foot in the final, but not finished.”
The unification of the Europa League this semester is a safe haven and they may forget the fact that they have encountered the worst Premier League points ever this semester.
United headed to Bilbao with the only unbeaten team in any European game, but faced their toughest challenge yet, with Bilbao ranked fourth in Laliga and having the meanest defense in the division.
Bilbao players gave the crowd early on, thus making the initial opportunity better. Inaki Williams should score from the title at close range, while Victor Lindelof comes to rescue in time.
However, Casemiro arrived on the prompt, waving momentum with Manchester United's support. Norwegian referee Escana Eskas ruled that Vivian denied Hojlund was a clear goal-scoring opportunity, so he gave a red card and pointed out the scene.
The calmness shown by Bruno Fernandes shows his punishment of calmly stroking home, shocking despite the ears of the clumsy crowd. The whistle barely disappeared when the Manchester United captain joined Manuel Ugarte's flick to add third place to the race.
To highlight the contrast between Manchester United's domestic and mainland campaigns, they are now scoring more goals in seven Europa League matches in 2025 than they have in the 15 Premier League matches this calendar year.
They have also won more games in the Europa League since Ruben Amorim took over as coach.
Casemiro could even add a fourth, but his second half header stood out from the post.
However, this work has been completed. Manchester United's success means 133 teams won the first leg of the UEFA Cup or Europa League knockout, leaving home with three or more goals, and all 133 won the draw.