Old Trafford, Manchester — In one of the most thrilling Europa League nights in recent memory, Manchester United sealed their place in the semifinals after a breathtaking 5-4 victory over Lyon (7-6 on aggregate) in extra time at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils looked dominant from the start, with Manuel Ugarte firing United into the lead in just the 10th minute. As halftime approached, Diogo Dalot doubled the advantage with a clinical finish in the 45+1 minute, giving United a comfortable 2-0 cushion at the break.
However, Lyon roared back in the second half. Corentin Tolisso and Nicolás Tagliafico turned the game on its head, scoring in the 71st and 77th minutes respectively, leveling the match at 2-2 and making it 4-4 on aggregate. Tolisso’s night took a turn for the worse though, as he was sent off after receiving a second yellow for a reckless challenge on Lenny Yoro in the 89th minute.
Despite being a man down, Lyon took a shocking lead in extra time. Rayan Cherki scored in the 104th minute, and Alexandre Lacazette coolly slotted home a penalty five minutes later to make it 4-2, seemingly crushing United’s hopes.
But Manchester United weren’t done yet.
Bruno Fernandes stepped up to convert a penalty in the 114th minute, narrowing the gap. Then came Kobbie Mainoo, the teenage sensation, who equalized dramatically in the 120th minute. Just one minute later, Harry Maguire completed the incredible comeback with a towering header at 120+1, sending Old Trafford into absolute chaos.
With this dramatic win, United remain unbeaten in the Europa League and now look ahead to a tough semifinal clash against Spain’s Athletic Club, who knocked out Rangers with a 2-0 aggregate win.
Elsewhere in the Europa League Quarterfinals:
Tottenham Hotspur edged out Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 on the night, advancing with a 2-1 aggregate score. Spurs now await their opponent in the semifinals.
Athletic Club were clinical in their 2-0 win over Rangers, progressing to face Manchester United in the semis.
Bodø/Glimt completed a dramatic upset over Lazio, winning 3-2 on penalties after a 3-3 aggregate draw.
The Europa League semifinal stage is now set with some mouthwatering clashes, as giants and underdogs alike fight for European glory.
