Cherki Strikes Late to Secure Draw for Lyon Against Manchester United

A dramatic equaliser from Rayan Cherki in stoppage time saw Olympique Lyonnais secure a 2-2 draw against Manchester United at home in the opening leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash, maintaining the Red Devils’ unbeaten streak over their last six encounters (W3, D3).

As a thunderous Icelandic thunder clap resonated through the Groupama Stadium before kick-off, it became evident that United had a high standard to meet in response to the charged atmosphere.

Initially, it appeared they were rising to the occasion. They surged forward early on, crafting a golden opportunity when Patrick Dorgu laid the ball back for an unmarked Rasmus Hojlund just 12 yards out, but the Danish striker misfired, directing his shot wide.

Next up was Bruno Fernandes, their reliable talisman, who sought to test Lyon’s goalkeeper, Lucas Perri. Yet, a well-timed block redirected his attempt just over the crossbar.

The pre-match banter between Andre Onana and Nemanja Matic added extra spice to the affair, leaving the United goalkeeper somewhat sheepish midway through the first half.

When Thiago Almada delivered a dangerous free-kick cross, a Lyon player missed it completely, and despite getting a hand to it, Onana couldn’t prevent it from finding the far corner.

It appeared that this error would see United trail at the interval, but unexpected hero Leny Yoro intervened, redirecting Manuel Ugarte’s volley into the bottom corner.

The young United centre-back then had another attempt shortly after the break, his shot just veering wide from the edge of the box.

Lyon had a significant chance as well, particularly through Corentin Tolisso, who skillfully created space in the area but could only send his shot directly into Onana’s hands.

Pushing hard in the final minutes, United almost snatched a late lead when Alejandro Garnacho connected with Dorgu’s deep cross on the volley, but his effort was brilliantly tipped over by Perri.

Lyon’s best opportunity to head into the away leg with an advantage slipped away when substitute Alexandre Lacazette narrowly missed with a curling shot from inside the penalty area.

They were made to rue that miss in cruel fashion, as in the dying minutes, Joshua Zirkzee rose at the far post to power home what seemed to be the winner.

Yet, in a dramatic turn, Cherki struck with virtually the last kick of the match, converting from close range after Onana fumbled Georges Mikautadze’s initial attempt, extending United’s undefeated run in the first legs of major European knockout ties to 12 matches.