n a dramatic post-match outburst, Olympique Lyonnais head coach Laurent Blanc expressed his fury following his team’s elimination from the UEFA Europa League at the hands of Manchester United. The French side suffered a 5-4 defeat after extra time at Old Trafford, resulting in a 7-6 aggregate loss.
Blanc did not hold back in his criticism, stating:
“I’m absolutely FURIOUS with my team—this is unacceptable! I gave one simple instruction: shut him [Kobbie Mainoo] down, don’t give him an inch. But no—they ignored it, and he did EXACTLY what I feared. Now we’re out, just like that. This wasn’t bad luck, this was pure failure to listen and execute. I can’t believe we let it happen like this. I’m angry, and every single one of them should be too.”
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions. Manchester United led 2-0 in regular time with goals from Ugarte and Dalot. However, Lyon fought back, and after 90 minutes, the score was level at 2-2, forcing extra time. Lyon then surged ahead, leading 4-2, seemingly on course for the semi-finals.
But Manchester United staged a remarkable comeback. Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty to make it 4-3. Then, in the 120th minute, 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo scored the equalizer, showcasing his composure and talent under immense pressure. Just a minute later, Harry Maguire headed in the winner, sealing a 5-4 victory for United.
Mainoo’s performance was instrumental in United’s triumph. His ability to control the midfield and deliver in crucial moments has drawn widespread acclaim. Fans and pundits alike are celebrating his contribution, with many stating that without him, United would not have advanced.
Manchester United now advances to the Europa League semi-finals, where they will face Athletic Bilbao. The victory not only keeps their European dreams alive but also provides a significant boost to the team’s morale and aspirations for the season.
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