London: Manchester United's Europa League’s endeavor received a setback as they suffered a 3-2 defeat by Athletic Bilbao at home in the first leg of the tournament played here at Old Trafford on Thursday.

United who did not look in best of their touches and lacked in commitment took an unexpected lead in the 22nd minute of the match through Wayne Rooney. The lead somewhat could not see the Red Devils take advantage over the match with constantly pushing them to the edge. Bilbao finally reaped success in their endeavors as they went on to score the equalizer just a minute ahead of the half time when Llorente header found the back of the net.

After the change of ends, Bilbao continued their attack on the United citadel and almost scored through Muniain. But his shot from 20 yard was stopped magnificently by United’s custodian David De Gea. De Gea was amidst the action again when he stopped a powerful shot from the Llorente.

De Gea who was excellent throughout the match however failed for the first time as just 20 minutes before the hooter he was beaten all ends up by an Oscar De Marcos shot which found the cage to give Bilbao the much deserved lead.

De Marcos was instrumental in their scoring Athletic’s third goal as well when his shot on target rebounded off De Gea only to find Munian tap it in the 90th. The match almost out of grasp from United’s hand took one more interesting turn when they were awarded a penalty in the 92nd minute. Rooney made no mistake as he converted it but it was too late as Athletic raced to a deserving win.

By Indian Sports News Network