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Manchester United staged a breathtaking comeback at Old Trafford, overturning a two-goal extra-time deficit to defeat 10-man Lyon 5-4, securing a Europa League semi-final clash with Athletic Bilbao.
With their Premier League campaign languishing in 14th place, the Red Devils faced a do-or-die scenario to keep their season alive through European silverware.
Early dominance saw them surge into a 2-0 lead, with Manuel Ugarte sweeping home a precise Alejandro Garnacho assist in the 10th minute, followed by Diogo Dalot's clinical finish just before half-time, capitalising on Harry Maguire's pinpoint crossfield pass.
Lyon, however, refused to buckle. Despite struggling initially, they clawed back through Corentin Tolisso's header from a set-piece and Nicolas Tagliafico's scrappy equaliser, levelling the score at 2-2.
The momentum shifted further when Tolisso was sent off in the 89th minute for a second yellow card, but Lyon stunned United in extra time.
Rayan Cherki's fierce strike and Alexandre Lacazette's penalty put the French side 4-2 ahead, leaving United on the brink of a first season without European football since 2014-15.
Yet, Old Trafford has witnessed miracles before, and this was no different. Bruno Fernandes sparked hope with a 114th-minute penalty, followed by substitute Kobbie Mainoo's composed 120th-minute equaliser.
Moments later, Maguire rose highest to head home the winner, sealing a 7-6 aggregate triumph and sending the home crowd into ecstasy.
"We were tired, 4-2 down to 10 men, thinking it's over, but here it's never over," manager Ruben Amorim said, drawing inspiration from United's 1999 Treble documentary. "At 4-3, we felt we could change the game. We pushed Harry up front because he's our best aerial threat, and Kobbie, despite injury, is lethal in tight spaces."
Amorim hinted at prioritising the Europa League, suggesting younger players might feature in upcoming Premier League matches. "One moment can shift the players' mindset. We must focus on the Europa League and take risks with kids in the league," he said.
Maguire, the match-winner, admitted the team's shortcomings but hailed their resilience. "We don't do anything easy," he said. "We had control, then their goals put us on the back foot. At 4-2 down to 10 men, it's not good enough, but this stadium brings out our spirit. My goal was an amazing feeling."
Amorim, reiterated the squad's determination to "go all the way" in the competition, while Maguire told reporters the win could "ignite" their season.
United's path to Bilbao promises more high-stakes drama, but for now, Old Trafford basks in the glow of a comeback for the ages.
