Real Sociedad vs Man United: Penalty Pandemonium Leaves Europa League Group Wide Open
Real Sociedad vs Man United: Manchester United’s Europa League hopes took a gut-punch twist in San Sebastián as Mikel Oyarzabal’s 89th-minute penalty snatched a 1-1 draw for Real Sociedad. Joshua Zirkzee’s first-half stunner had put the Red Devils on track for a crucial away win, but a contentious handball call against Harry Maguire gifted La Real a lifeline—and left Erik ten Hag fuming. Here’s how the drama unfolded and what it means for both teams’ UEL knockout dreams.
Real Sociedad vs Man United: Late Penalty Chaos: Oyarzabal Breaks United Hearts
With seconds left, Alexander Sørloth’s header smashed into Harry Maguire’s arm, prompting a VAR review. Referee Clement Turpin pointed to the spot, ignoring United’s fury. Oyarzabal stepped up, sent André Onana the wrong way, and sent the Anoeta into bedlam.
Controversy Breakdown:
- Maguire’s Protest: “My arm was against my body! Joke decision!”
- Ten Hag’s Rage: “We’re robbed. VAR is a lottery.”
- La Real’s Relief: Coach Imanol Alguacil shrugged: “Rules are rules.”
Real Sociedad vs Man United Meltdown: Late Penalty Drama Steals Europa League Spotlight
Zirkzee’s Breakthrough: United’s Diamond in the Rough
The Goal: On 32 minutes, Zirkzee—on loan from Bologna—pounced on a defensive error, danced past Robin Le Normand, and curled a beauty into the top corner.
Why It Mattered:
- Zirkzee’s Moment: His first UEL goal for United, justifying Ten Hag’s gamble to start him over Højlund.
- Tactical Shift: United’s 4-2-3-1 stifled La Real’s midfield early, with Mainoo and McTominay dominating.
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Stat Check:
| Team | Possession | Shots | xG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Sociedad | 58% | 14 | 1.3 |
| Man United | 42% | 9 | 0.9 |
Key Moments That Defined the Chaos
- Onana’s Save Streak: Denied Brais Méndez twice in the first half.
- Garnacho’s Miss: Blazed over an open net in the 67th minute.
- Sociedad’s Pressure: 12 second-half corners, but United’s defense (mostly) held firm… until thatcall.
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Europa League Fallout: What’s Next?
- Group Standings: Both teams sit on 10 points, but Sociedad leads on head-to-head.
- Final Matchday:
- Real Sociedad: Host Sheriff Tiraspol (easy win expected).
- Man United: Must beat Galatasaray at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag’s Challenge: “We control our fate. Win, and we’re through.”
Social Media Erupts: “Typical United” vs. “Justice for La Real”
- #MaguiRe: Memes of Maguire’s “invisible arms” flooded Twitter.
- Oyarzabal Worship: Basque fans dubbed him “Penalty Prince.”
- Roy Keane’s Take: “United’s game management? Non-existent. Again.”
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