Europa League: Manchester United Held by Real Sociedad, Tottenham Hotspur Suffers Defeat

In the first leg of the Europa League Round of 16, Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad, while Tottenham Hotspur suffered a 1-0 defeat against AZ Alkmaar.

Manchester United vs. Real Sociedad: Key Highlights

• Final Score: 1-1
• Manchester United Goal: Joshua Zirkzee (57′)
• Real Sociedad Goal: Mikel Oyarzabal (Penalty, 62′)

Joshua Zirkzee gave Manchester United the lead in the 57th minute with a stunning strike from outside the box. However, in the 62nd minute, a handball by Bruno Fernandes resulted in a penalty, which Mikel Oyarzabal successfully converted to equalize for Real Sociedad.

United’s goalkeeper André Onana made several crucial saves to deny Sociedad a late winner, keeping the tie open for the second leg at Old Trafford.

Tottenham Hotspur vs. AZ Alkmaar: A Tough Night for Spurs

• Final Score: 0-1
• AZ Alkmaar Goal: Lucas Bergvall (Own Goal, 18′)

Tottenham Hotspur struggled in their 1-0 loss to AZ Alkmaar, where an unfortunate own goal by Lucas Bergvall in the 18th minute decided the match. Despite dominating possession, Spurs failed to convert their chances into goals.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou criticized his team’s lack of intensity and mindset, emphasizing that they need to improve in the second leg to keep their Europa League hopes alive.

Second Leg Showdowns Await

Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will look to bounce back in the return leg next week, with United hosting Real Sociedad at Old Trafford and Spurs aiming to overturn their deficit against AZ Alkmaar.