Manchester United pulled off one of their most dramatic comebacks in recent history, beating Lyon 5-4 in extra time to advance to the Europa League semi-finals with a 7-6 win on aggregate.
The thrilling quarter-final second leg at Old Trafford had fans on the edge of their seats, as United fought back from a 4-2 deficit in extra time. Goals from Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Harry Maguire sealed the victory and booked a semi-final clash with Athletic Bilbao.
It looked like United's season was heading for another major disappointment. They are currently 14th in the Premier League, and losing this match would have ended their hopes of playing in Europe next season.
But first-half goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot gave the Red Devils an early advantage, only for Lyon to fight back. Corentin Tolisso and Nicolas Tagliafico scored twice in quick succession to level the tie. Tolisso was later sent off in the 89th minute for a second yellow card.
Despite being down to 10 men, Lyon took control in extra time with a powerful strike from Rayan Cherki and a penalty from Alexandre Lacazette. United were on the ropes, but the home crowd spurred them on.
Fernandes gave them hope with a calm penalty, before Mainoo scored to make it 4-4 on the night. Just a minute later, Maguire rose high to head in the winner, sending the stadium into wild celebrations.
United had started the game with purpose. Fernandes set up Garnacho, whose cross was finished by Ugarte. Dalot doubled the lead just before halftime after a long pass from Maguire.
But a missed chance from Garnacho early in the second half proved costly, as Lyon stormed back into the match. Lacazette played a key role, assisting Tolisso’s goal and helping keep the pressure on.
Onana, who had been criticized for recent errors, made key saves to keep United in the game. But it was the team’s late fightback that stole the spotlight.
Now, with a place in the semi-finals secured, Manchester United are just three matches away from winning a European trophy and earning a spot in next season’s Champions League.
