In a thrilling display of resilience, Manchester United triumphed over Lyon in the return leg of the Europa League quarter-finals, securing a dramatic 5-4 victory after extra time at Old Trafford on April 17, 2025. This victory came after the first leg ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving the aggregate score at 7-6 in favor of the Red Devils.
Manchester United, under the guidance of coach Ruben Amorim, initially took control of the match, with Manuel Ugarte scoring the opening goal in the 10th minute, followed by Diogo Dalot doubling the lead just before halftime in the 45+1 minute. The home side looked poised to advance comfortably, but Lyon had other plans.
In a stunning turn of events in the second half, Lyon equalized with goals from Corentin Tolisso in the 71st minute and Nicolas Tagliafico in the 78th minute, forcing the match into extra time. However, the French side was dealt a significant blow when Tolisso received a second yellow card in the 89th minute, reducing Lyon to ten men.
Despite being a man down, Lyon managed to score twice in extra time, with Rayan Cherki finding the net in the 105th minute and Alexandre Lacazette converting a penalty in the 110th minute, putting the visitors ahead 4-2. It seemed that Manchester United's hopes were slipping away.
But the Red Devils staged a remarkable comeback, starting with Bruno Fernandes converting a penalty in the 114th minute. The excitement didn't stop there, as Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire added two more goals in quick succession, at the 120th and 120+1 minutes respectively, sealing a sensational turnaround for Manchester United.
With this victory, Manchester United advanced to the semi-finals of the Europa League, where they will face Athletic Bilbao. The other semi-final will feature Bude-Glimt against Tottenham, with matches scheduled for May 1 and 8. The final is set for May 21 at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao.
Amorim, reflecting on the match, emphasized the importance of this victory for Manchester United, stating, "This competition represents for us the chance to get something positive out of this difficult season. There are two huge rewards: the UEFA Europa League trophy and a chance to qualify for the Champions League. These rewards are worth fighting for." He called on his players to give their all, saying, "We must play with heart and mind, and that applies to the players, the coaches, and the fans."
The match showcased the intense rivalry between the two clubs, with both teams delivering an exhilarating performance that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Manchester United's ability to rally back from a two-goal deficit in extra time speaks volumes about their determination and fighting spirit.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, the focus now shifts to the semi-finals, where Manchester United will aim to continue their pursuit of European glory while Lyon will reflect on what might have been. The stakes are high, and the journey continues for both teams in their quest for success.
