Late Goals from Fernandes, Mainoo, and Maguire Propel United to 7-6 Aggregate Victory in Extra-Time Epic at Old Trafford

In a match that will be remembered as one of the most dramatic in European football history, Manchester United secured a sensational 5-4 victory over Olympique Lyonnais at Old Trafford, advancing to the Europa League semi-finals with a 7-6 aggregate score.

---

First Half: United’s Early Dominance

The atmosphere at Old Trafford was electric from the outset, with fans unveiling a massive tifo reading “Never Gonna Stop” . Manchester United responded with an aggressive start, taking the lead in the 10th minute when Manuel Ugarte finished off a well-orchestrated move involving Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes. Just before halftime, Diogo Dalot doubled the lead, capitalizing on a long pass from Harry Maguire and slotting the ball past Lyon’s goalkeeper, Lucas Perri .

Second Half: Lyon’s Resurgence

Despite United’s control in the first half, Lyon mounted a comeback in the second. Corentin Tolisso headed in a goal in the 71st minute, followed by Nicolas Tagliafico’s equalizer in the 78th, bringing the match level at 2-2 and the aggregate to 4-4 . Tolisso’s subsequent red card for a second yellow in the dying minutes of regular time gave United a numerical advantage heading into extra time.

Extra Time: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

Lyon appeared to have sealed the tie in extra time with goals from Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette, the latter converting a penalty to make it 4-2 on the night and 6-4 on aggregate . However, United showcased their resilience and fighting spirit. Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty in the 114th minute after Casemiro was fouled in the box. Then, in the 120th minute, Kobbie Mainoo calmly slotted home to level the aggregate score at 6-6. Remarkably, just a minute later, Harry Maguire rose to head in the winner from a Casemiro cross, completing an extraordinary comeback .

Historic Feats and Records

This match set new records in European competition. It was the first time a team scored two goals in the 120th minute of a major European match. Additionally, the five goals scored in extra time marked the highest number in such a period in men’s European football history .

Looking Ahead

Manchester United’s victory sets up a semi-final clash with Athletic Bilbao, with the first leg scheduled for May 1 in Spain and the return leg at Old Trafford on May 8. With the final to be held at Bilbao’s San Mamés Stadium, United will be aiming to continue their remarkable Europa League journey and secure a spot in the Champions League next season.