Manchester United were denied a crucial away win in France after goalkeeper Andre Onana’s late blunder gifted Lyon a dramatic 2-2 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final tie.
The night went from bad to worse for the Cameroonian shot-stopper, who had already been under intense scrutiny following criticism from former United midfielder Nemanja Matic—now a Lyon player.
Onana allowed a soft free-kick from Thiago Almada to slip through his fingers, handing Lyon the lead and sparking loud jeers from the home crowd.
Despite the early setback, teenage defender Leny Yoro brought United level just before half-time, heading in his first goal for the club after a recycled free-kick.
With just two minutes left on the clock, it seemed United had turned the tide when Joshua Zirkzee’s powerful header gave them a late lead. But Onana’s troubles weren’t over.
In stoppage time, he spilled a low shot from Georges Mikautadze, allowing Rayan Cherki to pounce and grab a late equalizer for Lyon.
The result leaves everything to play for ahead of next week’s second leg at Old Trafford. However, the pressure is mounting on United, whose only chance of securing Champions League football next season is by lifting the Europa League trophy.
Failing to qualify for Europe’s elite competition could cost the club over £100 million—a major blow considering their financial constraints.
Thursday’s clash also highlighted United’s continued domestic struggles. Denmark’s Rasmus Hojlund, more effective in Europe than in the Premier League, wasted a clear chance in the first half.
Meanwhile, Lyon created multiple chances of their own, with Alexandre Lacazette and Corentin Tolisso both coming close.
Though Bruno Fernandes orchestrated much of United’s attacking play, Onana’s errors overshadowed the team’s performance, leaving fans questioning whether he remains the right fit for the club moving forward.
What do you think about Onana’s performance—should United stick with him or move on? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay updated with more sports news right here on NIGPOST!
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