⚽ Europa League Drama: Onana Blunders Help Lyon Earn 2–2 Draw Against Manchester United
LYON, FRANCE — In a night full of tension, noise, and narrative, it was Nemanja Matić — despite not playing a single minute — who seemed to have the last word.
The UEFA Europa League quarterfinal first leg between Lyon and Manchester United ended 2–2, but the spotlight — and scrutiny — was squarely on United goalkeeper André Onana, whose two high-profile errors handed Lyon a lifeline and validated the criticism from his former teammate Matić.
🧨 Day After the War of Words, Onana Falters
Just a day after Onana told media that United were “way better” than Lyon, Matić fired back, calling the Cameroonian “one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s history.” That jab echoed louder than ever after Thursday’s match.
Onana misjudged a Thiago Almada free kick in the 25th minute to gift Lyon the opener, then spilled a late shot from Georges Mikautadze, allowing Rayan Cherki to tap in a dramatic 94th-minute equalizer.
“He lay face-down on the turf. Matić, watching from the bench, reportedly smirked.”
🔄 United Score Twice, But Waste Opportunity
United’s goals came from:
- Leny Yoro just before halftime (39’)
- Joshua Zirkzee off the bench in the 88th minute
But missed chances from Højlund, Fernandes, and Garnacho left the door open — and Lyon took it.
🧠Amorim Backs Onana, But Pressure Grows
Manager Ruben Amorim tried to shield his keeper:
“If you play football, you can make mistakes. It’s about support and moving forward.”
Still, he hinted at possible rotation for the second leg:
“We’ll choose the best XI.”
With Onana’s inconsistency becoming a season-long concern, his starting role for the return leg at Old Trafford may be in jeopardy.
📉 What’s at Stake?
With no away goals rule, the tie is perfectly balanced — but the momentum now favors Lyon. United, on the other hand, face tactical decisions and psychological recovery ahead of a decisive return leg.
And Matić? His silence said it all.
