Maguire’s last-gasp heroics send Manchester United into Europa League semi-finals
MANCHESTER: Harry Maguire was the unlikely hero at Old Trafford as his dramatic 121st-minute header secured Manchester United a 5-4 win over Olympique Lyonnais in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final, sealing a sensational 7-6 aggregate triumph.
In a rollercoaster clash, United appeared to be cruising after first-half goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot put them 2-0 up on the night. But Lyon struck back in stunning fashion—Corentin Tolisso and Nicolas Tagliafico netting within six second-half minutes to level the tie.
Tolisso was later sent off, seemingly tilting the contest back in United’s favour. However, late goals from Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette put Lyon on the brink of a famous win, only for Bruno Fernandes to convert a penalty before Kobbie Mainoo equalised with what looked like the final kick.
In the dying seconds of extra time, Maguire rose highest to head home the decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations and booking United’s place in the semi-finals after one of the most dramatic ties in recent memory.
