Manchester United Stage Sensational Comeback Against Lyon Thanks to Last-Minute Drama
Manchester United pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks in Old Trafford history as they scored twice in the final minute of extra time to beat 10-man Lyon 5-4 and book a spot in the Europa League semi-finals.
United looked to be heading for a disappointing exit after throwing away a two-goal lead and then falling behind 4-2 in extra time. Fans were already leaving the stadium when Bruno Fernandes gave United hope by scoring a penalty six minutes from time. The decision came after VAR spotted a foul on Casemiro that the referee had missed.
Moments later, with Old Trafford roaring, young Kobbie Mainoo stayed calm and curled a beautiful shot into the bottom corner to level the tie at 4-4.
But United were not finished.
In front of former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who was watching from the stands, Casemiro lifted a cross into the box and Harry Maguire, playing up front as a last resort, rose to head in the winner. The stadium erupted as players, substitutes, and staff ran onto the pitch to celebrate.
The thrilling win means Ruben Amorim’s side will face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-final and keeps alive hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League through Europa League success.
A Night to Remember
The game had echoes of United’s famous 1999 Champions League final comeback. Ferguson’s old quote, “Football, bloody hell,” summed it up perfectly.
Ruben Amorim, United’s manager, celebrated Maguire’s late winner by sprinting down the touchline – just like José Mourinho did at Old Trafford with Porto in 2004. Rio Ferdinand, commentating for TNT Sport, was seen jumping with joy.
United now prepare for a semi-final clash with Bilbao, and possibly an all-English final against Tottenham. But this night will live long in the memory of fans and players alike.
Old Trafford, which is set to be replaced in the near future, witnessed one of its most unforgettable matches. From the Busby Babes to the Treble winners, this current team may not match those legends in quality, but for one night, they matched them in spirit and drama.
From Control to Chaos
For the first 70 minutes, United were in full control, with Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot giving them a two-goal cushion. But they failed to score a crucial third, and Lyon punished them.
Corentin Tolisso headed in after a flick-on from Alexandre Lacazette, and soon after, Nicolas Tagliafico levelled following a dangerous cross-shot from Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
United were rattled, and even after Tolisso was sent off for a foul on Leny Yoro, they created little. Lyon then took the lead in extra time through a fine strike from Rayan Cherki and added a fourth when Lacazette scored from the penalty spot after a foul on Malick Fofana.
United looked done. A season without European football loomed, and the financial blow of missing out on the Champions League was looming.
But United weren’t finished.
With Fernandes, Mainoo, and Maguire stepping up, they turned defeat into victory in the most dramatic fashion.
