Zirkzee appeared to have given the Devils a comeback win, but the hosts managed to escape defeat in the dying seconds
Lyon – Manchester United. Photo – Getty Images
Lyon drew 2-2 with Manchester United at home in the first leg of the 2024/25 Europa League quarter-finals.
In the first half, the game was played with territorial advantage for the hosts, who opened the scoring: Argentinean Thiago Almada took a free kick from the left flank, and the ball, without touching anyone, bounced into the far corner of Andre Onana's goal.
The Red Devils equalised in the dying seconds of the half. A set piece also helped, after which Frenchman Leni Yoro sent a pass from Manuel Ugarte into the net with one touch.
After the break the game was equal, but the Weavers had more dangerous moments. Corentin Tolisso got into a killing position, but sent the ball straight into the goalkeeper's hands. Soon Georges Mikautadze's shot was blocked by a defender at the last moment. Already at the end, but still at 1:1, the experienced Alexandre Lacazette was unable to hit the goal from the center of the penalty area.
Ruben Amorim's men also created their chances – in the 79th minute, Alejandro Garnacho fired at the goal from the goal area, but Lucas Perry reacted. However, the goalkeeper was powerless in the 88th minute, when a cross from Bruno Fernandes at the far post was closed by the fresh Joshua Zirkzee.
Lyon managed to salvage a draw in the very last attack. In the chaos, Mikautadze shot down the center, Onana blocked it in front of him, and Ryan Cherki, who avoided being caught offside, set the final score.
The return quarter-final will take place in Manchester a week later, on April 17. The winner will face the strongest in the Rangers-Athletic pair.
Before that, on Sunday, the rivals will play away matches in their respective championships. Lyon will face Auxerre, and Man United will face Newcastle.
- Europa League. Quarter finals. First match
Lyon – Manchester United – 2:2 (1:1)
Goals: Almada 26, Cherki 90+5 – Yoro 45+5, Zirkzee 88