Manchester United (Man U) advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) with a hat trick from 'captain' Bruno Fernandes (31).

Man U won 4-1 against Real Sociedad (Spain) in the second leg of the 16th round for the 2024-2025 season UEL on the 14th (KST). After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Man U secured a quarterfinal ticket with a total score of 5-2.

Fernandes is the key contributor to Man U's victory. He shook the net three times. This allows them to continue their challenge for the championship.

On the other hand, Japan national team forward Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad) ended the Europa League journey in the round of 16.

Man U adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation. Rasmus Hojlund led the front line, supported by Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Garnacho in the second line. The midfield consisted of Patrick Dorgu, Fernandes, Casemiro, and Diogo Dalot. The defense was formed by Aiden Heaven, Matthias de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui. Andre Onana defended the goal.

Real Sociedad used a 4-3-3 formation. Serraldo Beker, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Kubo occupied the front line. Pablo Marin, Martin Zubimendi, and Brice Mendes played in midfield, while the defense was formed by Aihen Munoz, Nayef Aguerd, Igor Zubeldia, and Aritz Elustondo. Alex Remiro started as the goalkeeper.

In the early stages of the match, Real Sociedad took the initiative. In the 10th minute of the first half, Oyarzabal converted a penalty kick to take the lead. De Ligt received a warning for committing a foul.

However, Man U quickly regained their balance. In the 16th minute of the first half, Fernandes scored from a penalty kick to make it 1-1. The first half ended in a tie.

In the second half, Fernandes was once again the solution. Dorgu drew a foul that earned a penalty kick, which Fernandes calmly converted. This goal put Man U ahead 3-2 on aggregate.

Fernandes not only scored twice but also completed his hat trick. In the 42nd minute of the second half, he surged into the penalty box during a counter-attack and scored with a right-footed shot. In the additional time, Dalot added another goal, ensuring Man U's 5-2 aggregate victory.

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