United renews old acquaintance in Europa League

Manchester United's rare foray into European football's second tier gives it a chance to renew another old acquaintance on Thursday when it hosts Atletico Bilbao in the Europa League.

Manchester United's rare foray into European football's second tier gives it a chance to renew another old acquaintance on Thursday when it hosts Atletico Bilbao in the Europa League.

Having reached the round of 16 by winning its first encounter with Ajax since 1976, United is up against a Spanish side it has not played since 1957.

Bilbao beat Matt Busby's United 5-3 in the quarterfinals of the old European Cup before the English powerhouse rallied and advanced with a 3-0 second-leg win.

With one win from four matches, United's home form in Europe is less impressive this season but Bilbao's players are still excited.

Defender Jon Aurtenetxe says, "it's a dream for our fans to see us play at Old Trafford."

Also Thursday, Atletico Madrid hosts Besiktas.