Manchester United Edge France Lyon 5-4 in Extra-Time Epic as Maguire Scores Late Winner

Location: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
Date: April 17, 2025
Competition: UEFA Europa League – Quarter-final, Second Leg

In a match that will go down as one of the great European nights at Old Trafford, Manchester United defeated France’s Olympique Lyonnais 5-4 after extra time, securing a dramatic 7-6 aggregate victory to reach the Europa League semi-finals. The hero? Harry Maguire – whose 118th-minute header sent the Theatre of Dreams into absolute delirium.

First Half – Manchester United vs France Lyon: Early Fireworks

Manchester United entered the game needing to overturn a 3-2 deficit from the first leg in Lyon. Erik ten Hag’s side started with urgency and intensity, and it paid off early. In the 12th minute, Bruno Fernandes calmly slotted home a penalty after Marcus Rashford was brought down in the box. That levelled the tie at 3-3 on aggregate.

But France Lyon responded just five minutes later when Alexandre Lacazette finished a flowing counter-attack with a curling strike past André Onana. Lyon now led 4-3 on aggregate, forcing United to dig deeper.

Marcus Rashford delivered again in the 28th minute with a powerful left-footed finish inside the area, bringing it to 2-1 on the night and 4-4 on aggregate. Just before halftime, Rasmus Højlund pounced on a defensive error to make it 3-1, flipping the aggregate score in United’s favour (5-4).

Second Half – Manchester United vs France Lyon: Relentless Fightback

France Lyon, to their credit, never gave up. The second half was a show of resilience from the French side. Rayan Cherki scored a stunning long-range effort in the 59th minute, followed by a close-range tap-in from Nicolás Tagliafico in the 67th. At 3-3 on the night and 6-5 to Lyon on aggregate, the away section erupted.

Manchester United pressed forward relentlessly. In the 82nd minute, substitute Alejandro Garnacho danced through Lyon’s backline and squared the ball for Scott McTominay, who smashed in the equalizer. The match was tied 4-4 on the night and 6-6 on aggregate. Extra time loomed—and arrived.

Extra Time – Manchester United vs France Lyon: Captain Maguire Delivers Glory

As both teams tired in extra time, moments of quality became rare. But with penalties looming, Manchester United won a corner in the 118th minute. Bruno Fernandes floated the ball into the box, and Harry Maguire—so often criticized, but now the captain delivering on the big stage—rose highest and powered a header past Lyon keeper Anthony Lopes.

The goal made it 5-4 on the night, 7-6 on aggregate. Old Trafford erupted. France Lyon pushed forward one last time, but United held firm.

Key Stats – Manchester United vs France Lyon

• Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester

• Attendance: 74,322

• Possession: Manchester United 56% – 44% France Lyon

• Shots: Man Utd 21 (11 on target) – Lyon 15 (7 on target)

• Key Goals:

  • Fernandes (12’ pen)

  • Rashford (28’)

  • Højlund (43’)

  • McTominay (82’)

  • Maguire (118’)

What’s Next After Manchester United vs France Lyon?

Manchester United now advance to the Europa League semi-finals, where they will face either Bayer Leverkusen or Roma. Erik ten Hag praised his side’s fighting spirit: “It was a game full of heart, mistakes, and moments. But we believed. Harry deserved that goal—he’s a warrior.”

For France Lyon, it’s heartbreak. But for United and their fans, it was a night they’ll never forget—a true European classic under the lights at Old Trafford.

10 Things to Do in Old Trafford, Manchester During an 8-Hour Business Trip

If you’re in Manchester for a short business trip and find yourself near Old Trafford, here are 10 great ways to make the most of your limited time:

1. Tour Old Trafford Stadium
   Take a 90-minute guided tour of Manchester United’s iconic home ground—visit the dressing rooms, tunnel, and sit in the dugout.

2. Visit the Manchester United Museum
   Explore decades of football history, trophies, legendary kits, and exclusive behind-the-scenes exhibits.

3. Catch a Match or Training Session (if timing allows)
   If your trip aligns with match day or open training, grab a ticket or pass—few things are as thrilling as live football at Old Trafford.

4. Have Lunch at Hotel Football
   Located just steps from the stadium, this hotel offers great views of Old Trafford and quality food by Cafe Football.

5. Take a Walk Along the Manchester Ship Canal
   Enjoy a peaceful stroll or quick jog with views of MediaCityUK and the stadium skyline.

6. Visit Salford Quays
   Just a short walk away, this area offers waterside dining, bars, and shopping—a nice spot to unwind or host informal meetings.

7. Explore The Lowry Arts Centre
   Ideal for art lovers or architecture enthusiasts, The Lowry showcases contemporary art and has a stylish café for a quick coffee break.

8. Pop Into the Trafford Centre (20 mins away)
   If time permits, head to this massive shopping and dining complex for premium brands and fine dining.

9. Book a VIP Meeting Room at Old Trafford
   Impress clients or partners with a quick meeting in one of the stadium’s corporate suites overlooking the pitch.

10. Grab a United Souvenir Before You Leave
    Stop by the Megastore for shirts, scarves, and other memorabilia—perfect gifts for clients or football-loving colleagues.