Manchester United’s recent Europa League quarter-final against Lyon was nothing short of legendary. Trailing 4-2 in extra time. Manchester United showcased their resilience, scoring three goals in the final minutes to secure a 5-4 victory and a 7-6 aggregate win.
The Night at The Theatre of Dreams. Manchester United vs Lyon
Manuel Ugarte and Diego Dalot opened the scoring, giving United an early 2-0 lead in the return leg.
Lyon responded fiercely, with Tolisso and Tagliafico scoring to even things up by the 90th minute.
Tolisso’s red card handed United a one-man advantage heading into extra time.
Cherki and Lacazette scored for Lyon, making it 4-2 and almost sealing United’s fate.
Then came United’s magic Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, Mainoo equalised, and Maguire sealed it in the 121st minute.
It was the first time two goals were scored in the 120th minute in European history.
The Dramatic Turnaround by Manchester United
In the dying moments, Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, reigniting United’s hopes. Kobbie Mainoo then equalized, setting the stage for Harry Maguire’s decisive 121st-minute header, sealing the comeback.
Historical Significance
This match marked the first time a team scored twice in the 120th minute of a major European competition. It stands alongside United’s most memorable comebacks, such as the 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich and the 2019 victory over PSG.
Here are famous United comebacks before Lyon.
Manchester United have a history of rewriting European scripts when all seems lost.
- 1999 UEFA Champions League Final vs Bayern Munich
United trailed Bayern 1-0 as the match entered stoppage time in Barcelona.
Teddy Sheringham equalised in the 91st minute; Ole Gunnar Solskjær scored the winner moments later.
They won the Champions League and completed an iconic treble.
- 2019 Champions League Round of 16 vs PSG
United lost the first leg 2-0 at Old Trafford a comeback seemed impossible.
In Paris, goals from Lukaku and Rashford sealed a 3-1 win.
Rashford’s last-minute penalty sent United through on away goals.
- 2018 vs Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juve
Ronaldo scored against his former club to give Juve the lead in Turin.
But United struck back with goals from Mata and an own goal, winning 2-1.
It was another famous night under the lights for United fans.
- 2007 vs AS Roma. Champions League Quarter-Final
United lost the first leg 2-1 in Rome and needed a strong response at Old Trafford.
They delivered a stunning 7-1 win with goals from Carrick, Ronaldo, and Rooney.
The 8-3 aggregate score remains one of their biggest wins.
- 1984 vs Barcelona – Cup Winners’ Cup
Barcelona won the first leg 2-0 at Camp Nou with Diego Maradona watching.
United overturned the deficit at Old Trafford, winning 3-0 with goals from Robson and Stapleton.
It was one of the earliest comebacks in the club’s European legacy.
What’s Next for the Red Devils
With this victory, United advances to the Europa League semi-finals to face Athletic Bilbao. The first leg is scheduled for May 1 in Bilbao, with the return leg at Old Trafford on May 8. A Europa League title would not only add to United’s illustrious history but also secure Champions League qualification for next season.
Final Words
Manchester United’s latest triumph exemplifies their enduring spirit and ability to defy the odds, reinforcing their reputation as comeback kings in European football. From Munich to Paris Manchester United never stop believing. This latest chapter adds to their rich European story, built on courage, comebacks, and glory.
