**Onana Errors Prove Costly as Late Lyon Equaliser Leaves United’s Europa League Hopes Hanging**
Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final remains finely poised after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Lyon in the first leg, as goalkeeper André Onana was at fault for both of the French side’s goals—including a heartbreaking equaliser in the final seconds of stoppage time.
United found themselves trailing after 25 minutes when Thiago Almada’s wide free-kick somehow evaded Onana, who failed to get a firm hand on the ball as it nestled into the far corner. The goal added further pressure on the Cameroonian, who has come under scrutiny for several high-profile mistakes this season.
Despite the early setback, United drew level just before the break through young defender Leny Yoro, who marked his first goal for the club in alert fashion. When Manuel Ugarte’s powerful volley ricocheted in the box, Yoro reacted quickest to guide the loose ball into the bottom corner, sending the sides into half-time level.
The visitors looked to have snatched a vital win when substitute Joshua Zirkzee headed home Bruno Fernandes’ looping cross in the 88th minute, seemingly giving United a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.
However, Lyon struck back in the cruellest fashion in the dying moments. Onana mishandled a routine shot from Georges Mikautadze, spilling the ball directly into the path of Rayan Cherki, who made no mistake with the rebound to earn the hosts a dramatic equaliser with the final kick of the game.
It was a bitter blow for Erik ten Hag’s side, who now return to Old Trafford knowing they must win to secure a place in the semi-finals. With the tie hanging in the balance, questions will continue to be asked about Onana’s reliability at the highest level, especially in high-stakes European competition.
