In an unforgettable night at Old Trafford on April 17, 2025, Manchester United secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Olympique Lyonnais after extra time, clinching a 7-6 aggregate win to advance to the UEFA Europa League semifinals. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing resilience, determination, and late-game heroics from the Red Devils.
Match Summary
Manchester United started the second leg with intent, quickly overturning the 2-2 first-leg draw. Manuel Ugarte opened the scoring in the 10th minute, tapping in a precise pass from Alejandro Garnacho. Just before halftime, Diogo Dalot doubled the lead, finishing low across goal after outmuscling Nicolas Tagliafico.
However, Lyon responded in the second half. Corentin Tolisso’s close-range header in the 71st minute halved the deficit, and Tagliafico’s shot six minutes later leveled the aggregate score at 4-4. Despite Tolisso receiving a second yellow card just before full time, reducing Lyon to ten men, the match proceeded to extra time.
In extra time, Lyon stunned the home crowd with goals from Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette, taking a 4-2 lead. Facing elimination, United mounted a remarkable comeback. Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty in the 114th minute after a foul on Casemiro. Then, in the 120th minute, Kobbie Mainoo curled in an equalizer, and just a minute later, Harry Maguire headed in the winning goal from a Casemiro cross, sealing a historic victory.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Manchester United | Olympique Lyonnais |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 5 | 4 |
| Aggregate Score | 7 | 6 |
| Possession | 41(%) | 59(%) |
| Shots | 21 | 21 |
| Shots on Target | 8 | 9 |
| Corners | 7 | 3 |
| Fouls Committed | 17 | 14 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 |
Post-Match Reactions
Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim praised his team’s character, stating, “The boys showed incredible spirit and determination to fight back and secure the win. It’s a proud moment for the club.”
Lyon’s coach Paulo Fonseca expressed disappointment, noting, “We had the game in our hands, but lapses in concentration cost us dearly in the final moments.”
Next Fixture
Manchester United will face Athletic Club Bilbao in the Europa League semifinals. The first leg is scheduled for May 1, 2025, at San Mamés Stadium, with the return leg at Old Trafford on May 8, 2025. The winner will advance to the final, bringing them one step closer to European glory.
