Manchester United secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals, booking their place in the semi-finals. The team seemed on the verge of elimination when they trailed 3-2 in extra time, with Lyon holding a 6-4 aggregate lead. Things worsened after Alexandre Lacazette scored a penalty to make it 4-2 on the night. However, Manchester United mounted an incredible comeback, with Bruno Fernandes converting a penalty to give hope, followed by goals from Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire in the dying moments.
According to Rich Fay, writing for Manchester United’s official media, Ruben Amorim, the team’s head coach, played a key role in the turnaround. At half-time during extra time, Amorim made crucial tactical adjustments. He repositioned Harry Maguire, moved Casemiro closer to the goal, and pushed Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount into more attacking roles. Amorim told reporters, “At half-time in extra-time, it was to change the positions. To try to be really clear about the position of Harry Maguire, trying to put Casemiro near the goal, Kobbie Mainoo near the goal, Mason Mount to cross balls, and try to explain that we need to score one goal, and anything can change.” His words and tactical changes inspired the players to fight back.
Despite playing against 10 men, United’s performance was remarkable. Amorim’s confidence in his team never wavered, and he believed that anything could happen in Old Trafford. He added, “In this stadium, in this club, you always have the feeling anything can happen. Today was another day like that.” The comeback was a testament to the team’s resilience and Amorim’s tactical genius.
Article updated 1 month ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
