Controversial penalty sees Man Utd beaten in Europa League opener

Man Utd's Europa League campaign began with defeat at home to Real Sociedad. After an uneventful first half which United had the better of, a controversial second half penalty proved to be the difference. Brais Mendez scored in the 58th minute after a handball by Lisandro Martinez to end Man Utd's four game winning run in all competitions. Cristiano Ronaldo started the game, but despite having opportunities, he could not get on the scoresheet. For Sociedad, it was a night to remember. 

The match began with a minute's silence to remember the Queen and Real Sociedad started the game better despite hardly creating a chance. After the opening 10-15 minutes, Man Utd picked up and won themselves a couple of corners which the Spanish side managed to deal with. 

Cristiano Ronaldo was the closest either side came to a goal in the first half and, after 30 minutes, he was about to pull the trigger when Pacheco made a brilliant tackle. Ronaldo had the ball in the net five minutes later after heading in Dalot's cross, but Ronaldo was flagged offside. 

The first half was devoid of goalmouth action and the match was goalless going into the interval. A rather dull first 45 minutes came to and end, but the second period was much more exciting. Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez came on for Dalot and Eriksen and United looked strong. 

 

September 8, 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo headed wide a Fernandes pass moments after the resumption while Ronaldo also hit one over the top moments later after being given the ball by Elanga. However, Sociedad so nearly took the lead when Sorloth headed off target from Kubo's terrific ball. Then, just before the hour mark, Sociedad went in front in controversial circumstances.

David Silva's strike from inside the box struck the sliding Lisandro Martinez on his left arm after hitting his leg first. However, Italian referee Marco Di Bello pointed to the penalty spot and Brais Mendez made no mistake from 12 yards. Kubo could have even made it two had he not been denied by De Gea.

Man Utd pushed for an equaliser, but were unable to create many chances. Casemiro tested Remiro on a couple of occasions, but Sociedad held firm to take the points. Man Utd will be looking to put things right away to Sheriff next Thursday.