Before the game against Lyon, former Manchester United player Nemanja Matic said goalkeeper Andre Onana was “one of the worst in Manchester United’s history.” Matic, now playing for Lyon, made the comment during a pre-match press conference.
Onana’s Errors Lead to Goals in 2-2 Draw Against Lyon
In the Europa League quarterfinal first leg, Onana struggled. After 25 minutes, he could not stop a curling free-kick by Thiago Almada, giving Lyon the lead. Later, he failed to hold a shot by Georges Mikautadze, allowing Rayan Cherki to score the equalizer.
United Takes the Lead but Cannot Hold On
Leny Yoro scored for Manchester United just before halftime, heading in after a mistake by Lyon’s goalkeeper Lucas Perri. In the 88th minute, substitute Joshua Zirkzee scored with a header from a Bruno Fernandes cross, seeming to secure the win. However, Onana’s mistake let Lyon equalize soon after.
Players React After the Disappointing Draw
Leny Yoro said, “This is the worst moment to concede a goal like that. We were winning 2-1. A draw away is still okay, but we wanted the win.” Manchester United remains unbeaten in the Europa League this season.
Europa League Victory Could Save United’s Season
Winning the Europa League would earn Manchester United a place in next season’s Champions League. Their chances of qualifying through the Premier League are slim, as they are currently in 13th place.
Tottenham Battles to a Draw Against Eintracht Frankfurt
Tottenham also fought for a result in their Europa League quarterfinal. They went behind early when Hugo Ekitiké scored after a quick counterattack. Pedro Porro equalized for Tottenham after connecting with a James Maddison cross.
Coach Praises Tottenham Players After Tough Match
Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou said, “I can’t ask any more of the lads. It was disappointing to concede the way we did.”
Bodø/Glimt Shocks Lazio with a 2-0 Win
Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt pulled off a surprise by beating Lazio 2-0. Heavy snowfall had put the game at risk, but it went ahead on an artificial pitch. Ulrik Saltnes scored twice, first with a low shot and then by lobbing the ball over the goalkeeper.
Rangers and Athletic Bilbao Play Out Goalless Draw
In Glasgow, Rangers and Athletic Bilbao finished 0-0. Rangers went down to 10 men early after Robin Pröpper was sent off. Athletic Bilbao missed a late chance to win when Alex Berenguer missed a penalty.
Second Leg Matches Set for Next Thursday
All teams will play the second leg of their Europa League quarterfinals next Thursday.
Chelsea Remains Perfect in the Europa Conference League
Chelsea continued their strong form with a 3-0 win at Legia Warsaw in the Europa Conference League. After a quiet first half, Chelsea scored three times in the second period.
Young Stars Shine for Chelsea
Tyrique George scored his first goal for Chelsea with a rebound early in the second half. Noni Madueke added another goal just minutes later. Madueke then scored again in the 74th minute to make it 3-0. Christopher Nkunku missed a penalty that could have made it four.
Other Conference League Results
In the other quarterfinals, Fiorentina won 2-1 at Celje, Real Betis beat Jagiellonia 2-0, and Rapid Vienna defeated Djurgården 1-0.
All second-leg matches will also take place next Thursday.
