Stoppage-time equaliser denies Manchester United
Lyon 2 - 2 Manchester United
A stoppage-time equaliser from Lyon has left Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final delicately poised at the halfway point.
Stadiun - Groupama Stadium
United fell behind after 25 minutes when Thiago Almada’s wide free-kick evaded a strong enough touch from André Onana, whose uncertain handling continues to draw scrutiny.
But just before the break, United drew level through Leny Yoro. The 18-year-old notched his first goal for the club, reacting sharply to Manuel Ugarte’s volley and steering it into the bottom corner.
The visitors looked to have snatched a late winner when Joshua Zirkzee, introduced from the bench, guided a looping header past the goalkeeper from Bruno Fernandes’ cross in the 88th minute.
However, with virtually the last kick of the game, Onana fumbled a shot from Georges Mikautadze, allowing Rayan Cherki to tap in and spark celebrations in the Lyon end.
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Do United lack ruthlessness in attack?
With United languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, their most viable route into European football next season likely hinges on winning the Europa League and securing the Champions League place that comes with it.
For much of the night they looked structured and focused, and arguably edged the performance overall.
But, as has so often been the case this season, they were let down by wastefulness in front of goal. Zirkzee was the only forward who looked assured, replacing Rasmus Højlund just after the hour mark.
Manager Ruben Amorim will be hoping for sharper finishing in the second leg. There was at least a positive in the return of Kobbie Mainoo, who made a brief appearance off the bench after recovering from a muscle injury that had kept him out since February.
Best fan reaction
James Y, a Manchester United fan, said: "Our team appears to be solid and well-organized, which is a testament to Amorim's efforts. However, we struggle to close out games effectively. We are particularly lacking in three key positions: goalkeeper, striker, and attacking winger. Upgrading these areas should be a priority moving forward."
Rojin added: "The football looked quite decent, there's definitely improvement under Amorim. With the summer signings, I have hope for next season. We defended well, but, like in almost every match this season, there was a lack of a genuine attacking threat."
Liam C added: "A good performance, even if we should have won the match. I am confident that this will be the tie against Sociedad where we were quite comfortable with the Old Trafford crowd behind us."
We did manage to speak with one Lyon fan, who told us: "That was a poor performance from us really. We were perhaps lucky to come away from the match from a draw. I am not confident we can win at Old Trafford. The best we can hope for us extra time and penalties."
