Harry Maguire’s goal in the final seconds of extra time helped Manchester United defeat Olympique Lyonnais 7–6 on aggregate in their quarterfinal match on Thursday, securing a spot in the Europa League semifinals.
There was no margin for mistake because the Red Devils’ 14th-place finish in the Premier League standings meant that their dreams of salvaging a dismal season with trophy and continental status would be dashed if they suffered their first European loss of the season.
On Thursday night, when United was on the verge of a humiliating quarterfinal defeat, Corentin Tolisso and Nicolas Tagliafico cancelled out goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot to force extra time.
With Alexandre Lacazette’s penalty and Rayan Cherki’s score, Lyon easily dispatched Tolisso, leaving the home team to face their first season without European action since 2014–15.
United has often demonstrated that they can fight until the end, even with their current shortcomings.
Kobbie Mainoo’s goal in the 120th minute caused chaos, Bruno Fernandes’ penalty kick in the 114th minute gave optimism, and Maguire’s header seconds later sent the home crowd into a state of euphoria, securing a 7-6 aggregate victory and a semi-final matchup with Athletic Bilbao, who defeated Rangers 2-0. Spurs defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 1-0 to advance to the semi-finals, where they will face Bodo/Glimt.
