In a match that will be remembered as one of the most dramatic in European football history, Manchester United pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Lyon 5-4 in extra time, securing a 7-6 aggregate victory and a place in the Europa League semi-finals.
The night began with United taking a commanding 2-0 lead, only to see it slip away as Lyon rallied back to score four unanswered goals, leaving the home side seemingly dead and buried.
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The French club’s Cherki opened the scoring in extra time, followed by a penalty from Lacazette, pushing Lyon ahead 4-2 and putting United’s hopes on the brink.However, the Red Devils refused to back down.
A pivotal moment came when Casemiro was brought down in the box, leading to a VAR review that awarded United a crucial penalty. Bruno Fernandes stepped up and coolly converted, reigniting the home crowd’s hopes.
As the clock ticked towards the end of extra time, Casemiro once again proved instrumental, setting up substitute Kobbie Mainoo, whose exquisite finish found the far corner of the net, leveling the score at 4-4 on the night and 6-6 on aggregate.
In a dramatic finale, Harry Maguire rose to the occasion, heading home a cross from Casemiro to clinch the victory for United in the dying moments of the match.
The Old Trafford faithful erupted in jubilation, celebrating a remarkable turnaround that will go down in the annals of football lore.
Despite an expected xG of 3.20 to Lyon’s 2.44, the match’s true narrative was one of resilience and determination, as United showcased their fighting spirit in a contest that defied all odds.
Manager Ruben Amorim’s side now looks ahead to the semi-finals, while Lyon is left to ponder what might have been on a night of unprecedented drama. As the dust settles on this unforgettable encounter, Manchester United has proven once again that in football, anything is possible.
The Red Devils will face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals.
