Manchester United v Lyon: Europa League quarter-final, second leg – live

In an ideal scenario, Manchester United’s objective this evening is straightforward: secure a spot in the Europa League semi-final against either Athletic Bilbao or Rangers. However, the reality surrounding this Europa League quarter-final, second leg clash against Lyon is far more layered. This pivotal match could significantly impact goalkeeper André Onana, who is currently under scrutiny, manager Ruben Amorim, facing mounting pressure, and the team’s overall performance. A defeat tonight would undoubtedly trigger intense debate and analysis for an extended period, underscoring Manchester United’s status as a club perpetually in the spotlight.

Conversely, victory presents a different narrative. Manchester United displayed promising moments in the first leg in Lyon, an experience they aim to leverage tonight. Advancement in this Europa League campaign would place them within touching distance of silverware, further European honors, and qualification for next season’s prestigious Champions League. These potential outcomes represent significant turning points, offering redemption for the goalkeeper, manager, and the team. Therefore, it’s clear that much more than a semi-final berth is at stake for Manchester United in this crucial encounter. The kick-off is scheduled for 8pm BST. The stage is set for a compelling match!

Both teams have opted for identical starting lineups as in the first leg at Parc Olympique Lyonnais last week. Manchester United’s substitutes bench remains unchanged as well, with the exception of Joshua Zirkzee who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury.

Relive the highlights from the first leg clash through our minute-by-minute coverage and match report. André Onana’s performance in the previous fixture is under scrutiny following costly errors.

History suggests a favorable outcome for Manchester United tonight. In their two previous encounters against Lyon at Old Trafford, United have emerged victorious on both occasions.

During the 2004-05 Champions League group stage, Ruud van Nistelrooy’s goal secured a 2-1 win after Mahamadou Diarra nullified Gary Neville’s opener. Later, in the 2007-08 Champions League Round of 16, Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike proved decisive. Revisit the reports from these past matches:

Adding to United’s confidence… They have progressed in 14 out of 20 European knockout ties where they drew the first leg away from home. Notably, the only instance they drew the first leg 2-2 away – against Barcelona in the 2022-23 Europa League – they secured a 2-1 victory in the return leg. This perfect record contrasts sharply with Lyon’s. The French side has been eliminated in all nine previous European ties when drawing the first leg at home. History firmly favors Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim’s interview with TNT Sports: “We performed adequately in France, but we are capable of улучшение… several players are unavailable to start, necessitating consideration for all scenarios, including extra time… André Onana simply needs to concentrate on delivering a strong performance. He is a professional, our player, and part of our starting eleven… Lyon might adjust their approach, potentially maintaining a similar strategy, but we anticipate adjustments… We must demonstrate shrewdness, patience, manage pressure effectively, and play a commendable match.”

The teams are now on the field! Manchester United, known as the Red Devils, are in their iconic red jerseys. Olympique Lyonnais, “Les Gones” (the Kids), are in white kits accented with tricolor trim. Lyon’s supporters have created a deafening atmosphere, matched by the fervent home support of Manchester United. The stadium resonates with noise. A new tifo display reads “NEVER GONNA STOP,” featuring legendary figures who have lifted European trophies for United, including Rio Ferdinand, Peter Schmeichel, Bryan Robson, Wayne Rooney, and Sir Bobby Charlton.

A John Denver track fills the stadium as Lyon prepare to start the match. The aggregate score stands at 2-2 following the first leg. Manchester United will play towards the Stretford End in the first half.

Residual smoke from pre-match pyrotechnics lingers. Onana makes a couple of early touches. Casemiro attempts a long pass to Dorgu on the left flank but overhits it, resulting in a throw-in for Lyon.

Maguire asserts his presence with a robust challenge on Cherki, drawing appreciation from the home crowd.

Mikautadze tries to find Almada inside the Manchester United penalty area on the left side, but Mazraoui intercepts effectively.

The game is currently high-tempo yet disjointed. Both sets of supporters are creating a vociferous atmosphere.

Maguire’s long pass targets Garnacho on the left wing, but Veretout prevents him from advancing. Manchester United switch play to the opposite side, and Fernandes earns the first corner of the match off Akouokou. Fernandes will take the corner himself.

Prior to the corner, the referee cautions Maguire and Akouokou after a minor scuffle. Fernandes takes the corner, but it comes to nothing. Lyon clear the danger comfortably.

Hojlund drops deep and sets up Fernandes in a promising position on the right channel. Fernandes has options for a pass or a shot but hesitates, allowing Tolisso to dispossess him. A missed opportunity for United.