Manchester United vs Lyon: The Europa League’s most memorable thriller

The Europa League quarter-final second leg between Manchester United and Lyon, played at Old Trafford on April 17, 2025, was a memorable moment in football history. The match was a thrilling affair with nine goals, a dramatic extra-time comeback, and Harry Maguire’s last-minute winner. The first leg ended in a 2-2 draw, and United won 7-6 on aggregate to book their place in the semi-finals. 

First half: United’s attacking start

Manchester United took the offensive within the first 10 minutes of the match. Alejandro Garnacho cut back the ball from the right, and Manuel Ugarte slotted past Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perry. The stadium at Old Trafford was filled with the excitement of the fans. In the 36th minute, Bruno Fernandes hit a brilliant volley, but the ball hit the crossbar, which further excited the fans. Towards the end of the first half, Diogo Dalot controlled Harry Maguire’s long pass and scored from a low angle, giving United a 2-0 lead. This moment gave United confidence to the sky.

Second half: Lyon’s comeback

In the second half, Lyon changed their strategy and intensified their attack. In the 71st minute, Corentin Tolisso scored with a header, making the score 2-1. This goal gave new energy to the Lyon players and fans. In the 78th minute, Nicolas Tagliafico scored from a corner kick, tying the game 2-2. The draw increased the tension among the United fans. In the 89th minute, Tolisso received a second yellow card and was sent off, leaving Lyon reduced to 10 men. United now had a chance, but the game was level after 90 minutes, and went into extra time.

Extra time: Dramatic twists

In the first half of extra time, 10-man Lyon took a surprise lead. Ryan Cherki scored a brilliant goal in the 105th minute, making it 3–2. The goal stunned United fans. Lyon were awarded a penalty in the 110th minute, and Alexandre Lacazette slotted home past goalkeeper Andre Onana. The score was now 4–2, and Lyon were 6–4 up on aggregate. United’s semi-final dream was about to be dashed. The fans were disappointed, but the atmosphere at Old Trafford was still alive.

The final comeback: United’s magic

Manchester United pulled off a miracle in the final 10 minutes of the game. United were awarded a penalty in the 114th minute after Casemiro was tackled in the box. Bruno Fernandes scored without a mistake, making it 4-3. The goal gave the fans hope. In the 120th minute, Kobe Maino scored a brilliant goal, making the score 6-6 on aggregate and sending the game to a penalty shootout. But United did not stop there. In the 121st minute, Harry Maguire headed in a cross, making the score 5-4, giving United a 7-6 aggregate victory. There was a wave of joy at Old Trafford, with fans comparing the moment to the Barcelona final in 1999.

Player and coach reactions

“It’s the definition of madness. This incredible win has given the fans unforgettable memories,” said Harry Maguire. “We lost 4-2 despite being 4-2 up because of our lack of experience,” said Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca. United coach Ruben Amorim said, “It was an unbelievable night. Even at 4-2, the game is never over here.” “It was the most exciting game of my life,” said young defender Lenny Yoro. “The fans were with us every minute of the game.”

Match significance

The match became the first nine-goal game in Europa League history. United have lost just one of their last 30 Europa League games at Old Trafford, a testament to their home-grown strength. Lyon have lost their last four two-legged European matches against English sides. The win sent United into the semi-finals against Athletic Club, and fans are now dreaming of the trophy.

Conclusion

The Manchester United vs Lyon match was a perfect example of the magic and unpredictability of football. The dominance of the first half, Lyon’s comeback in the second half, and United’s miracle in extra time made this match immortal. Harry Maguire’s last-gasp goal sent Old Trafford into a festive mood. This match will always be remembered by football fans, as it showed that a game at Manchester United is never over.