Manchester United Held to a 1-1 Draw by Real Sociedad in Europa League Round of 16

Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián on March 6, 2025. 

The match began with both teams displaying attacking intent. In the 57th minute, Manchester United broke the deadlock when Joshua Zirkzee latched onto Alejandro Garnacho's pass and fired past goalkeeper Alex Remiro. However, Real Sociedad responded with vigor, and in the 70th minute, they were awarded a penalty after Bruno Fernandes was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box following a VAR review. Mikel Oyarzabal converted the spot-kick to level the score. 

The remainder of the match saw both sides create opportunities. Substitute Orri Óskarsson had a chance to secure a win for Sociedad but was thwarted by United's goalkeeper, André Onana, who made a crucial save in stoppage time. 

The draw leaves the tie finely poised, with both teams having an equal chance to progress to the quarter-finals. The second leg at Old Trafford next week is anticipated to be a decisive encounter in this closely contested fixture.