ATLETICO MADRID AND Sporting Lisbon both claimed victories in tonight’s Europa League semi-final first legs.
Sporting beat Man United’s conquerors, Bilbao, 2-1 in Lisbon.
The Spanish side took the lead with a volley from Jon Aurtenetxe, however Sporting subsequently fought back.
Emiliano Insua’s header levelled the sides, before Diego Capel’s long-distance strike sealed the win for the home side.
Meanwhile, in the evening’s other fixture, Atletico Madrid beat Valencia 4-2.
A Radamel Falcao header gave Atletico the lead, before Jonas equalised.
Goals from Miranda and Adrian Lopez, in addition to a second from Falcao, then put the hosts firmly in control.
However, a late Ricardo Costa header gave Valencia hope going into the second leg.
Results in full:
Atletico Madrid 4-2 ValenciaSporting 2-1 Athletic Bilbao