Manchester United held to Dramatic draw as Europa League Quarters Deliver Thrills
Onana's errors cost United in Lyon, while Rangers survive with 10 men against Bilbao, and Bodo/Glimt stun Lazio in a night of surprises
Manchester United played out a dramatic 2-2 draw against Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal at the Groupama Stadium. The match was marred by two costly errors from goalkeeper André Onana, who allowed Thiago Almada's free-kick to slip past him in the 25th minute and fumbled a late shot, gifting Rayan Cherki an injury-time equaliser.
United's goals came from young defender Leny Yoro, who scored his first for the club just before halftime, and Joshua Zirkzee, whose 88th-minute header seemed to have sealed the win.
It must be sobering for Onana as his poor show came after he became embroiled in a slanging match with former United midfielder Nemanja Matic before the game. Manager Ruben Amorim defended Onana post-match, emphasising the team's focus on the second leg at Old Trafford.
Rangers held Athletic Bilbao to a goalless draw at Ibrox despite playing with 10 men for 77 minutes. Robin Propper was sent off early for a foul on Iñaki Williams. Goalkeeper Liam Kelly was the hero for Rangers, making a series of crucial saves, including a penalty stop against Alex Berenguer after a lengthy VAR review. Bilbao dominated possession but failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage, leaving the tie finely poised for the second leg at San Mamés.
Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt pulled off a stunning 2-0 victory over Lazio at home. Ulrik Saltnes scored both goals in the second half, showcasing clinical finishing. Lazio struggled to cope with Bodo/Glimt’s high-pressing game and now face an uphill battle in the return leg in Rome.
Tottenham was held to a 1-1 draw by Eintracht Frankfurt in a tightly contested match. Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring for Frankfurt, but Pedro Porro equalised with a clever backheel. Spurs dominated the second half, hitting the woodwork twice and forcing several saves from Frankfurt goalkeeper Kaua Santos, who was outstanding.
The draw leaves United needing a strong performance at home to secure a semifinal spot.
Rangers showcased its resilience with 10 men, and it keeps its hopes alive, but it will need a disciplined display in Bilbao.
Bodo/Glimt, the Norwegian side’s victory puts its in a commanding position to advance, continuing its remarkable European journey.
Spurs will need to improve its finishing in the second leg to overcome Frankfurt.
The Europa League quarterfinals are shaping up to be fiercely competitive, with all ties still open heading into the second legs.
