An epic match unfolded at Old Trafford, where Manchester United secured a dramatic qualification to the Europa League semi-finals by defeating Lyon 5–4 after a thrilling encounter that went down to the final minutes of extra time.
After a 2–2 draw in France in the first leg, everything was open for the return match. The Red Devils started the clash aggressively, taking the lead in the 10th minute through Ugarte, while Dalot doubled the advantage in first-half stoppage time (45+1), giving Ruben Amorim’s side a comfortable lead at the break.
However, the second half brought an unexpected twist. Lyon responded with determination: first, Tolisso reduced the score to 2–1 in the 71st minute, and just seven minutes later, Lacazette equalized to make it 2–2. In the 89th minute, Lyon were reduced to 10 men after Tolisso received a second yellow card and was sent off.
Extra time turned into a spectacle of its own. Cherki scored for the visitors in the 105th minute (2–3), and Lacazette converted a penalty in the 108th minute to make it 2–4, giving Lyon real hope of a stunning qualification.
But Manchester United didn’t give up. Bruno Fernandes reignited hope in the 114th minute with a penalty to make it 3–4. Then, in the 120th minute, young talent Kobbie Mainoo equalized to 4–4, electrifying the stadium. Just a minute later, in the 120+1’, Harry Maguire scored the decisive goal for 5–4, completely flipping the script of the match.
With this unforgettable victory, Manchester United advance to the semi-finals, where they will face Athletic Bilbao – a clash that promises to be just as intense and exciting.
