Manchester United held to draw by Real Sociedad in Europa League

Manchester United’s Europa League last-16 tie against Real Sociedad remains in the balance after a 1-1 draw in Spain. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, but Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty equalized for the hosts.

Zirkzee’s strike came in the 57th minute with a low shot from the edge of the box that caught out Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro. The goal was deserved, as Manchester United had dominated the game for almost an hour, with Andre Onana not having had a save to make before the penalty.

However, Real Sociedad was awarded a penalty after a review by the video assistant referee for a handball by Bruno Fernandes. Oyarzabal converted the spot-kick in the 70th minute, changing the momentum of the game.

Manchester United had chances to win, with Fernandes having a goal-bound strike cleared off the line by Aritz Elustondo in the first half. The United captain also sent a free-kick just wide. But Real Sociedad’s equalizer appeared to unsettle Manchester United, and Onana had to make several saves to deny the hosts.

The second leg will take place at Old Trafford on Thursday, March 13. Manchester United will feel confident of progressing to the quarter-finals on home soil, but the pressure will be on them as they look to keep alive their sole route to trophy success this season.

Despite the disappointment of conceding an equalizer, Manchester United will be encouraged by their dominant display for much of the game. They have not lost a game in Europe this season, recording five wins and four draws.

The tie is now set up for a thrilling conclusion at Old Trafford next week. Manchester United will be looking to capitalize on their away goal and secure a place in the quarter-finals, while Real Sociedad will be hoping to cause an upset and progress to the next round.