Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes made Europa League history with a stunning hat-trick against Real Sociedad on Thursday night.
The Portugal international was in sensational form, netting a hat-trick in the Red Devils’ 4-1 demolition of La Liga side Real Sociedad at Old Trafford in their second Round of 16 clash.
Mikel Oyarzabal had given the Spaniards a 10th minute lead, however, Fernandes restored parity from the penalty spot sixth minutes later.
Ruben Amorim’s side took the lead for the first time in the 50th minute, with their captain converting from the penalty spot, before completing his hat-trick three minutes from time.
With that, he made history as the player with the most goals and assists in Europa League history, totaling a combined 24 goals and 17 assists.
Fernandes’ international teammate, Diogo Dalot, added a fourth in the dying moments as United secured a dominant victory over Imanol Alguacil’s side, who could only blame themselves for their defensive lapses.
“I think confidence is a big thing in football,” man-of-the-match Fernandes told TNT Sports after the game.
“And at this club even more, because you know how much you are on the eyes of everyone, so you need to perform always at the highest level to have your confidence.
“But the main thing is we have to back ourselves, in the dressing room, on the training ground.
“Everyone has to understand we are here for each other.”
Manchester United must now navigate a tricky clash with French side Olympique Lyon for a chance to reach the Europa League semifinals.
Before that potential showdown, they face Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, and Manchester City in the Premier League.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
