Real Sociedad 1-1 Man Utd: Zirkzee Shines as First Leg Ends Level

Man Utd Held to 1-1 Draw in Europa League Last 16 First Leg

• Joshua Zirkzee put United ahead in the second half
• Mikel Oyarzabal equalized from the penalty spot
• The tie remains evenly poised ahead of the Old Trafford clash

Manchester United battled to a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the Europa League last 16 first leg, with Joshua Zirkzee delivering an outstanding performance in northern Spain. Ruben Amorim’s side showed resilience after their FA Cup disappointment last weekend, but they will need a strong second leg at Old Trafford to progress.

Zirkzee Strikes, But Oyarzabal’s Penalty Rescues Sociedad

United started well, dominating possession in key areas, and their patience paid off when Zirkzee found the net early in the second half. However, Real Sociedad responded with an equalizer from the penalty spot, converted by captain Mikel Oyarzabal.

The Spanish side grew in confidence after their goal, forcing Andre Onana into multiple crucial saves, including a last-minute stop in injury time. Despite Sociedad’s late pressure, United held firm to keep the tie finely balanced before the decisive second leg.

Real Sociedad Player Ratings (4-3-3)

Ratings via Fotmob

• GK: Alex Remiro – 6.4
• RB: Aritz Elustondo – 7.3
• CB: Igor Zubeldia – 6.7
• CB: Nayef Aguerd – 7.3
• LB: Aihen Munoz – 7.3
• CM: Brais Mendez – 6.8
• CM: Benat Turrientes – 6.5
• CM: Luka Sucic – 7.0
• RW: Takefusa Kubo – 6.7
• ST: Mikel Oyarzabal (c) – 8.1
• LW: Ander Barrenetxea – 6.7

Man Utd Player Ratings (3-4-3)

Ratings via Fotmob

• GK: Andre Onana – 7.5
• CB: Leny Yoro – 7.2
• CB: Matthijs de Ligt – 7.5
• CB: Noussair Mazraoui – 7.4
• RM: Diogo Dalot – 6.8
• CM: Casemiro – 7.2
• CM: Bruno Fernandes (c) – 6.6
• LM: Patrick Dorgu – 6.6
• RF: Alejandro Garnacho – 7.6
• ST: Rasmus Hojlund – 6.5
• LF: Joshua Zirkzee – 8.3

Player of the Match – Joshua Zirkzee (Man Utd)

Zirkzee was United’s standout performer, scoring a well-taken goal and posing a constant threat in attack. His movement and link-up play caused problems for Sociedad’s defense, proving why he is a key asset for Ruben Amorim’s team.

What’s Next?

With the tie level, all eyes will be on Old Trafford next week. Can United secure a quarter-final spot, or will Sociedad produce an upset? Share your thoughts in the comments!