Andre Onana was at the center of attention once again, committing two costly mistakes that overshadowed an otherwise strong showing from Manchester United. Despite a commanding away performance, especially under Ruben Amorim’s guidance, United had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final first leg — a match they could’ve easily had under control.
Lyon opened the scoring in the 25th minute after Thiago Almada’s speculative free-kick was horribly misjudged by Andre Onana. The United goalkeeper completely misread the flight of the ball, failing to assert himself — a moment that only adds fuel to Nemanja Matic’s harsh assessment of Onana as one of the club’s worst keepers.
Despite the setback, United regrouped and found a crucial equaliser just before halftime. Manuel Ugarte fired a volley towards goal, which Leny Yoro cleverly redirected into the net. Buoyed by the goal, the Red Devils took control after the break, with Joshua Zirkzee heading home a pinpoint Bruno Fernandes cross to give United a deserved lead.
United appeared set to extend their lead, but a costly lapse from Andre Onana handed Lyon a way back. The goalkeeper fumbled a routine save straight into the path of Lyon star Rayan Cherki, who capitalised with a 94th-minute equaliser.
GOAL hands out player ratings for Manchester United’s performance at the Groupama Stadium.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Andre Onana (2/10):
All eyes were on him after his public spat with Matic, and unfortunately, he lived up to the worst expectations. Two costly mistakes overshadowed the team’s overall performance. That’s now nine errors leading to goals in under two seasons — far from acceptable at this level.
Leny Yoro (8/10):
Justified his £52m ($67m) price tag with a standout performance. Netted a smart headed goal and impressed with a surging second-half run. Calm, composed, and impactful at both ends.
Harry Maguire (5/10):
Had some nervy moments in the first half that invited unnecessary pressure. Wasn’t as dominant aerially as usual and looked off the pace at times.
Noussair Mazraoui (7/10):
A composed showing at the back. Read the game well and stayed disciplined throughout, contributing to United’s defensive structure.
Midfield
Diogo Dalot (6/10):
Solid defensively, stayed alert and disciplined throughout. Didn’t offer much going forward but did his job at the back.
Manuel Ugarte (5/10):
Got United back into the game with a powerful volley that led to the equaliser, but struggled for consistency in possession. Passing was erratic.
Casemiro (6/10):
Brought composure to midfield and nearly grabbed a goal with an audacious overhead attempt. Controlled the tempo in patches.
Patrick Dorgu (6/10):
Energetic on the left flank and set up a golden opportunity for Hojlund. Always looking to make things happen in the final third.
Attack
Alejandro Garnacho (5/10):
Looked lively and caused problems for Lyon’s defense, but his decision-making let him down—most notably when he passed to Fernandes instead of the better-placed Zirkzee.
Rasmus Hojlund (4/10):
Clearly short on confidence. Missed a big chance from Dorgu’s setup and produced a tame shot when one-on-one. Cut a frustrated figure when subbed off.
Bruno Fernandes (7/10):
Struggled to influence the game early on but remained the creative engine. Delivered a perfectly weighted assist for Zirkzee’s goal, showcasing his vision and leadership.
Conclusion
Manchester United will leave France frustrated after letting a promising lead slip through their fingers. Despite standout moments from Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, it was Andre Onana’s costly errors that overshadowed an otherwise solid performance. The Red Devils showed glimpses of control and creativity, but lapses in concentration—particularly in goal—proved decisive. As they head into the second leg, United must tighten up defensively and capitalize on their attacking potential if they hope to book a spot in the semi-finals.