Bilbao, May 2 -- A brace from Bruno Fernandes helped Manchester United secure a brilliant 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in their UEFA Europa League semifinal first leg clash on early Thursday night.

In a stunning effort, United managed to breach Europe's perhaps tighest fortress at Estadio de San Mames, where Bilbao had not suffered a loss since August.

After a goalless half an hour, a special effort from Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte helped Casermiro deliver the lead for the Red Devils in the 30th minute of the game.

Later, a foul from the hosts helped United big time as they were awarded a penalty, which Bruno wasted no time in converting into a goal, doubling the lead in the 37th minute.

Bilbao tried to halt United's momentum with...