Manchester United pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks in their European history, overturning a 4-2 extra-time deficit to beat Lyon 5-4 and advance to the Europa League semi-finals 7-6 on aggregate at Old Trafford on Thursday.
What seemed a lost cause turned into a night of high drama as United, down to ten men and trailing late on, roared back with three goals in the final six minutes. Bruno Fernandes sparked the turnaround with a penalty, Kobbie Mainoo levelled, and Harry Maguire sealed the win with a towering header.
United, currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, were on the brink of missing European football entirely next season. Now, they’re just three matches away from lifting a European trophy and securing a Champions League spot.
First-half goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot had put United in control. Ugarte opened the scoring with a composed finish after a slick team move, while Dalot added a second in stoppage time, firing in off the post after a fine touch from Maguire’s long ball.
However, Lyon responded with two quick goals from Corentin Tolisso and Nicolas Tagliafico to level the tie. Tolisso was later sent off in the 89th minute for a second yellow card, yet the French side still managed to take the lead in extra time through Rayan Cherki’s stunning strike and Alexandre Lacazette’s penalty.
United looked down and out, but Fernandes’ penalty gave them hope. Mainoo, playing in an advanced role, calmly slotted in to make it 4-4. Moments later, Maguire rose highest at the back post to head home the winner and complete a sensational 5-4 victory on the night.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana, under pressure following previous errors and a public spat with Nemanja Matic, made key saves earlier in the game to keep United in contention.
The Red Devils will now face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals as they aim to end a turbulent season with silverware.
