In a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester United staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 after extra time, securing a spot in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals with a 7-6 aggregate victory. The match, held on April 17, 2025, will be remembered as one of the most exhilarating matches in European football history.
Manchester United took an early lead when Manuel Ugarte scored in the 10th minute, followed by Diogo Dalot doubling the advantage just before halftime, leaving Lyon trailing 2-0 at the break. With the aggregate score at 4-2 in favor of United after the first leg ended in a 2-2 draw, Lyon appeared to be on the brink of elimination.
However, the second half brought a resurgence for the French side. Corentin Tolisso ignited hope for Lyon in the 71st minute, scoring with a well-placed header after a scramble in the box, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. Just six minutes later, Nicolás Tagliafico equalized the match at 2-2, bringing the aggregate score to 4-4 and forcing the game into extra time.
As the match entered extra time, Lyon's captain Tolisso received a second yellow card, leaving his team with ten men. Despite the disadvantage, Lyon took control. Rayan Cherki scored in the 105th minute, giving Lyon a 3-2 lead, and Alexandre Lacazette converted a penalty in the 110th minute, extending their lead to 4-2.
With Lyon seemingly in command, the tide turned again. In the 114th minute, Casemiro earned a penalty for Manchester United, which Bruno Fernandes converted, bringing the score to 4-3. The drama continued as Kobbie Mainoo equalized in the 120th minute, making it 4-4 and setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.
Just as it seemed the match would go to penalties, Harry Maguire scored a header in the 121st minute, sealing a stunning 5-4 victory for United. This result marked the first time a French club has lost by such a scoreline in a European competition, and it was also Lyon's first elimination in extra time in European history.
Lyon's journey in the Europa League came to a heartbreaking end, despite a valiant effort. The match showcased both teams' resilience and skill, with Lyon's remarkable comeback efforts ultimately falling short. Alexandre Lacazette's performance was noteworthy as he became Lyon's all-time leading scorer in European competitions, surpassing Juninho with 19 goals.
Manchester United will now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face Athletic Bilbao, who defeated Rangers with a 2-0 aggregate score in their quarter-final tie. In the other semi-final, Tottenham will meet Bodo/Glimt after their respective victories.
This match will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come, illustrating the unpredictable nature of knockout football and the drama that unfolds in the Europa League.
