In a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final moments, Manchester United clinched a spot in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals at the expense of French side Olympique Lyon.
Early Lead for Manchester United
Manchester United edged Lyon 5-4 in a dramatic encounter on Thursday night at Old Trafford, in the second leg of the quarter-finals.
The regular time ended 2-2, identical to the score of the first leg held last week in France.
This led to extra time, split into two 15-minute halves, where the English side ultimately secured their place in the final four.
United took an early lead with two goals.
One from Uruguayan Manuel Ugarte in the 10th minute and another from Portuguese Diogo Dalot in first-half stoppage time.
Lyon responded in the second half, equalizing through Frenchman Corentin Tolisso in the 71st minute and Argentine Nicolás Tagliafico in the 78th.
The Drama Escalated in Extra Time.
Despite being reduced to ten men after Tolisso received a second yellow card in the 89th minute.
Lyon took the lead with a goal from Rayan Cherki in the 104th minute.
Followed by a penalty goal by Alexandre Lacazette in the 109th, putting them up 4-2.
But Manchester United refused to give in.
They mounted a stunning comeback (remontada) — Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty in the 114th minute, and Kobbie Mainoo equalized in the 120th.
Just when the match seemed destined for a penalty shootout.
Harry Maguire sealed the deal for the Red Devils with a dramatic fifth goal in added time of the second extra half, securing their qualification.
Manchester United will now face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals, after the Spanish side overcame Scottish club Rangers.
