Lyon takes on Manchester United this Thursday, April 10, at the Groupama Stadium in a gripping Europa League quarterfinal showdown, with kickoff at 4:00 PM Brasília time. At the 51-minute mark of the first half, the score stands at 1-1, thanks to a stunning free-kick from Thiago Almada, formerly of Botafogo, at 25 minutes, and a last-gasp header from Manchester United’s young defender Leny Yoro at 45+5. The match, still in progress, keeps the crowd on edge at the packed OL Stadium as both teams vie for an edge in this first-leg encounter. Lyon, bolstered by Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri, aims to capitalize on home advantage, while Manchester United, featuring Casemiro in midfield, fights to tilt the balance before the halftime whistle. This high-stakes duel between two European heavyweights promises more twists as the first half nears its close.
At the 25-minute mark, Thiago Almada lit up the game with a perfectly executed free-kick from the left flank, sending the ball into the top right corner past a helpless André Onana. The Argentine’s strike, his third goal in eight Europa League games this season, showcased his technical prowess and set the tone for Lyon’s early dominance. However, Manchester United struck back in stoppage time when Leny Yoro rose above the Lyon defense to head in a pinpoint set-piece delivery from Manuel Ugarte at 45+5, leveling the score just before the break. The 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes reflects a fiercely contested battle with no clear favorite yet emerging.
The Groupama Stadium buzzes with energy as the game unfolds, with Lyon fans roaring their approval of Almada’s brilliance and Manchester United supporters rallying behind Yoro’s timely equalizer. Lucas Perri has been a rock in goal for the hosts, thwarting threats like Rasmus Højlund’s effort at 33 minutes, while Casemiro anchors the United midfield, pushing for control. With the match still ongoing at 51 minutes, both sides remain locked in a tense struggle, each searching for a decisive moment to shift the momentum in this Europa League quarterfinal first leg.
Lineups and stadium vibe
Lyon fields a 4-3-3 formation, with Lucas Perri guarding the net, backed by a defense of Nicolás Tagliafico, Moussa Niakhaté, Clinton Mata, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The midfield trio of Paul Akouokou, Corentin Tolisso, and Jordan Veretout provides stability, while Thiago Almada, Georges Mikautadze, and Rayan Cherki lead the attack. Coach Paulo Fonseca’s setup blends experience with flair, and Almada’s free-kick at 25 minutes has been the standout moment so far. The Groupama Stadium, holding nearly 59,000 fans, is a cauldron of noise, with Lyon supporters creating an electric atmosphere to spur their team on.
Manchester United counters with a 3-4-3 lineup, featuring André Onana in goal, a back three of Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, and Leny Yoro—who scored the equalizer at 45+5—and a midfield quartet of Diogo Dalot, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, and Patrick Dorgu. Up top, Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Højlund form a dynamic attacking trio. Rúben Amorim’s side shows resilience, though Dalot’s yellow card at 31 minutes adds a challenge. The smaller contingent of United fans makes itself heard, but the home crowd dominates the soundscape at 51 minutes.
Weather conditions in Lyon at 4:00 PM local time hover around 18°C under partly cloudy skies, ideal for a fast-paced match. The pristine Groupama Stadium pitch enhances both teams’ ability to play their passing game, contributing to the high tempo observed up to the 51-minute mark of the first half.
Key moments up to 51 minutes
The first half has delivered intense action and critical plays. Here are the standout moments so far:
- 25′ – Thiago Almada’s free-kick goal: Almada curls a precise shot into the top right corner, giving Lyon a 1-0 lead.
- 31′ – Yellow card for Diogo Dalot: The United right-back is booked after a tough challenge on Tagliafico.
- 33′ – Højlund denied by Perri: Højlund’s shot is saved brilliantly by Lyon’s goalkeeper Lucas Perri.
- 37′ – Garnacho’s effort blocked: Garnacho’s attempt from inside the box is stopped by Lyon’s defense.
- 45+5′ – Leny Yoro’s equalizer: Yoro heads in a Ugarte free-kick to make it 1-1 in stoppage time.
45+5′ Rattrapés juste avant la pause, nos Gones rentrent aux vestiaires sur ce score de 1-1
Mais première très encourageante ! On continue en deuxième les gars 🔴🔵#OLMUFC | 1-1 pic.twitter.com/Vnu0OOTn5o
— Olympique Lyonnais (@OL) April 10, 2025
Tactics on display
Lyon kicked off with an aggressive approach, using Tagliafico and Maitland-Niles to stretch the wings. Almada’s free-kick goal at 25 minutes stemmed from sustained pressure that forced a foul from Mazraoui, showcasing their set-piece prowess. Lucas Perri’s save at 33 minutes against Højlund underlines the team’s defensive solidity, while Tolisso and Veretout dictate play in midfield. At 51 minutes, Lyon has slightly dropped back, aiming to counter with Cherki and Mikautadze’s pace.
Manchester United employs quick transitions, relying on Garnacho and Højlund’s speed up front. Casemiro and Ugarte provide a robust midfield base, though Dalot’s booking at 31 minutes has tempered their right flank. The equalizer from Yoro at 45+5 highlights their strength in aerial duels and set-pieces, a tactic Amorim pushes as they press for a lead. At 51 minutes, United maintains possession, probing for gaps in Lyon’s backline.
Historical backdrop and stakes
Lyon and Manchester United have crossed paths four times in European competitions, all in the Champions League, with United holding an unbeaten record: two wins and two draws. Their last meeting in 2008 ended with a 1-0 United victory at Old Trafford, a stepping stone to that year’s title. Now, in the Europa League, Lyon aims to break this streak and secure a first-leg advantage at home. The 1-1 score at 51 minutes mirrors the tight contests of their past, with the game still unfolding.
For Manchester United, the Europa League is a lifeline this season after exits from the FA Cup and League Cup, plus a shaky 13th-place standing in the Premier League. Their 5-2 aggregate win over Real Sociedad in the last round boosted morale. Lyon, fifth in Ligue 1, comes off a 7-1 rout of FCSB in the round of 16, signaling their intent. The current deadlock at 51 minutes keeps the tie finely poised.
Standout performers so far
Thiago Almada dominates for Lyon at 51 minutes, his free-kick at 25 minutes marking his third goal in eight Europa League outings this season. The ex-Botafogo star nearly doubled the lead at 30 minutes with a shot Onana saved, proving his threat from range. Lucas Perri shines in goal, notably with his stop on Højlund at 33 minutes, while Cherki’s dribbles keep United on their toes.
Leny Yoro emerges as Manchester United’s key figure, his 45+5 header tying the game and marking his first Europa League goal. Garnacho’s close call at 37 minutes shows his flair, though blocked, and Højlund’s physicality tests Lyon’s defense, despite a miss at 18 minutes. Bruno Fernandes, missing the target at 23 minutes, remains the creative hub, pushing for more.
Balance and battle in the first half
At 51 minutes, the 1-1 score reflects a closely fought match, with Lyon striking first through Almada’s brilliance and United clawing back via Yoro’s aerial power. Lyon’s four shots, two on target, align with their 0.2 shots-per-minute average in the competition, while United’s six attempts, three on target, match their 4.8 seasonal average. Possession splits nearly even—49% Lyon, 51% United—underscoring the midfield tussle.
Foul counts show Lyon with five and United with four, with Dalot’s yellow at 31 minutes the only caution. Corners stand at four for Lyon and three for United, hinting at both teams’ attacking intent. The 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes keeps the game teetering, with each side poised for a breakthrough before halftime.
Roar of the Groupama crowd
Lyon’s supporters turn the Groupama Stadium into a fortress at 51 minutes, their chants peaking after Almada’s goal at 25 minutes and echoing through Yoro’s equalizer. The sea of flags and noise pressures United relentlessly, boosting Lyon’s resolve, as seen in Cherki’s block at 29 minutes. The smaller United fanbase fights to be heard, but the home crowd’s intensity reigns supreme.
The atmosphere fuels the game’s fervor. Almada’s strike ignited the stands, and despite Yoro’s late reply, Lyon fans keep the energy high, urging their team to regain the lead. This electric backdrop at 51 minutes amplifies the stakes, making every play a test of nerve for both squads.
Tactical shifts in real time
Paulo Fonseca keeps Lyon proactive, with Almada and Cherki drifting between lines to unsettle United. The 25-minute free-kick goal reflects their set-piece strength, while Perri’s save at 33 minutes anchors the backline. At 51 minutes, Lyon balances defense and counterattacks, eyeing Mikautadze’s speed to exploit gaps.
Rúben Amorim adjusts United dynamically, leaning on set-pieces—as Yoro’s 45+5 goal proves—while urging Garnacho and Højlund to press higher. Casemiro’s shot at 24 minutes, saved by Perri, shows midfield intent, though Dalot’s caution at 31 minutes curbs their right side. At 51 minutes, United pushes for a lead, testing Lyon’s resolve.
Closing minutes of the half
With the score tied at 1-1 at 51 minutes, the final moments of the first half loom large. Lyon could snatch the lead with Almada’s vision or Cherki’s flair, while United threatens through Garnacho’s runs or another set-piece. Lucas Perri faces constant pressure, but United’s defense must also stay sharp against Lyon’s counters.
Glenn Nyberg’s refereeing keeps the game fluid, with four minutes of added time signaled at 45 minutes, though play extends beyond due to stoppages. The nine fouls—five by Lyon, four by United—highlight the physicality, and the 1-1 score at 51 minutes promises more drama before the whistle.
Stats shaping the showdown
Up to 51 minutes, Lyon’s four shots, two on target, match their Europa League pace, while United’s six attempts, three on goal, align with their higher average. Corners tilt slightly to Lyon at four against United’s three, and possession hovers near 50-50. The single yellow card to Dalot at 31 minutes marks the disciplinary tally so far.
The 1-1 score at 51 minutes captures only part of the action, with Almada’s 25-minute strike and Yoro’s 45+5 response defining the half. Both teams’ attacking output and defensive stands keep the match finely balanced, setting the stage for a thrilling finish to the first period.
Almada and Yoro steal the spotlight
Thiago Almada, Lyon’s 23-year-old star, commands attention at 51 minutes. His 25-minute free-kick, his third goal in eight Europa League games, and a near miss at 30 minutes showcase his skill. The former Botafogo standout drives Lyon’s attack, linking with Cherki and Mikautadze to keep United guessing.
Leny Yoro, Manchester United’s 19-year-old defender, answers with a clutch header at 45+5, his first in the competition. Rising above Lyon’s backline, he turns Ugarte’s delivery into a lifeline, proving his worth in a high-pressure moment. At 51 minutes, Yoro’s impact keeps United in the fight.
What lies ahead
As the clock ticks past 51 minutes, the 1-1 stalemate leaves the game hanging in the balance. Lyon could surge ahead with Almada’s set-piece magic or Cherki’s trickery, while United eyes a Garnacho breakthrough or Højlund finish. The Groupama Stadium’s roar fuels the tension, and the first half’s end remains unwritten.
The Europa League quarterfinal first leg continues to unfold, with the score reflecting a tight contest. Both teams show hunger, and the 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes ensures the battle for supremacy in this leg is far from over, with more action still to come before halftime.

Lyon takes on Manchester United this Thursday, April 10, at the Groupama Stadium in a gripping Europa League quarterfinal showdown, with kickoff at 4:00 PM Brasília time. At the 51-minute mark of the first half, the score stands at 1-1, thanks to a stunning free-kick from Thiago Almada, formerly of Botafogo, at 25 minutes, and a last-gasp header from Manchester United’s young defender Leny Yoro at 45+5. The match, still in progress, keeps the crowd on edge at the packed OL Stadium as both teams vie for an edge in this first-leg encounter. Lyon, bolstered by Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri, aims to capitalize on home advantage, while Manchester United, featuring Casemiro in midfield, fights to tilt the balance before the halftime whistle. This high-stakes duel between two European heavyweights promises more twists as the first half nears its close.
At the 25-minute mark, Thiago Almada lit up the game with a perfectly executed free-kick from the left flank, sending the ball into the top right corner past a helpless André Onana. The Argentine’s strike, his third goal in eight Europa League games this season, showcased his technical prowess and set the tone for Lyon’s early dominance. However, Manchester United struck back in stoppage time when Leny Yoro rose above the Lyon defense to head in a pinpoint set-piece delivery from Manuel Ugarte at 45+5, leveling the score just before the break. The 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes reflects a fiercely contested battle with no clear favorite yet emerging.
The Groupama Stadium buzzes with energy as the game unfolds, with Lyon fans roaring their approval of Almada’s brilliance and Manchester United supporters rallying behind Yoro’s timely equalizer. Lucas Perri has been a rock in goal for the hosts, thwarting threats like Rasmus Højlund’s effort at 33 minutes, while Casemiro anchors the United midfield, pushing for control. With the match still ongoing at 51 minutes, both sides remain locked in a tense struggle, each searching for a decisive moment to shift the momentum in this Europa League quarterfinal first leg.
Lineups and stadium vibe
Lyon fields a 4-3-3 formation, with Lucas Perri guarding the net, backed by a defense of Nicolás Tagliafico, Moussa Niakhaté, Clinton Mata, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The midfield trio of Paul Akouokou, Corentin Tolisso, and Jordan Veretout provides stability, while Thiago Almada, Georges Mikautadze, and Rayan Cherki lead the attack. Coach Paulo Fonseca’s setup blends experience with flair, and Almada’s free-kick at 25 minutes has been the standout moment so far. The Groupama Stadium, holding nearly 59,000 fans, is a cauldron of noise, with Lyon supporters creating an electric atmosphere to spur their team on.
Manchester United counters with a 3-4-3 lineup, featuring André Onana in goal, a back three of Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, and Leny Yoro—who scored the equalizer at 45+5—and a midfield quartet of Diogo Dalot, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, and Patrick Dorgu. Up top, Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Højlund form a dynamic attacking trio. Rúben Amorim’s side shows resilience, though Dalot’s yellow card at 31 minutes adds a challenge. The smaller contingent of United fans makes itself heard, but the home crowd dominates the soundscape at 51 minutes.
Weather conditions in Lyon at 4:00 PM local time hover around 18°C under partly cloudy skies, ideal for a fast-paced match. The pristine Groupama Stadium pitch enhances both teams’ ability to play their passing game, contributing to the high tempo observed up to the 51-minute mark of the first half.
Key moments up to 51 minutes
The first half has delivered intense action and critical plays. Here are the standout moments so far:
- 25′ – Thiago Almada’s free-kick goal: Almada curls a precise shot into the top right corner, giving Lyon a 1-0 lead.
- 31′ – Yellow card for Diogo Dalot: The United right-back is booked after a tough challenge on Tagliafico.
- 33′ – Højlund denied by Perri: Højlund’s shot is saved brilliantly by Lyon’s goalkeeper Lucas Perri.
- 37′ – Garnacho’s effort blocked: Garnacho’s attempt from inside the box is stopped by Lyon’s defense.
- 45+5′ – Leny Yoro’s equalizer: Yoro heads in a Ugarte free-kick to make it 1-1 in stoppage time.
45+5′ Rattrapés juste avant la pause, nos Gones rentrent aux vestiaires sur ce score de 1-1
Mais première très encourageante ! On continue en deuxième les gars 🔴🔵#OLMUFC | 1-1 pic.twitter.com/Vnu0OOTn5o
— Olympique Lyonnais (@OL) April 10, 2025
Tactics on display
Lyon kicked off with an aggressive approach, using Tagliafico and Maitland-Niles to stretch the wings. Almada’s free-kick goal at 25 minutes stemmed from sustained pressure that forced a foul from Mazraoui, showcasing their set-piece prowess. Lucas Perri’s save at 33 minutes against Højlund underlines the team’s defensive solidity, while Tolisso and Veretout dictate play in midfield. At 51 minutes, Lyon has slightly dropped back, aiming to counter with Cherki and Mikautadze’s pace.
Manchester United employs quick transitions, relying on Garnacho and Højlund’s speed up front. Casemiro and Ugarte provide a robust midfield base, though Dalot’s booking at 31 minutes has tempered their right flank. The equalizer from Yoro at 45+5 highlights their strength in aerial duels and set-pieces, a tactic Amorim pushes as they press for a lead. At 51 minutes, United maintains possession, probing for gaps in Lyon’s backline.
Historical backdrop and stakes
Lyon and Manchester United have crossed paths four times in European competitions, all in the Champions League, with United holding an unbeaten record: two wins and two draws. Their last meeting in 2008 ended with a 1-0 United victory at Old Trafford, a stepping stone to that year’s title. Now, in the Europa League, Lyon aims to break this streak and secure a first-leg advantage at home. The 1-1 score at 51 minutes mirrors the tight contests of their past, with the game still unfolding.
For Manchester United, the Europa League is a lifeline this season after exits from the FA Cup and League Cup, plus a shaky 13th-place standing in the Premier League. Their 5-2 aggregate win over Real Sociedad in the last round boosted morale. Lyon, fifth in Ligue 1, comes off a 7-1 rout of FCSB in the round of 16, signaling their intent. The current deadlock at 51 minutes keeps the tie finely poised.
Standout performers so far
Thiago Almada dominates for Lyon at 51 minutes, his free-kick at 25 minutes marking his third goal in eight Europa League outings this season. The ex-Botafogo star nearly doubled the lead at 30 minutes with a shot Onana saved, proving his threat from range. Lucas Perri shines in goal, notably with his stop on Højlund at 33 minutes, while Cherki’s dribbles keep United on their toes.
Leny Yoro emerges as Manchester United’s key figure, his 45+5 header tying the game and marking his first Europa League goal. Garnacho’s close call at 37 minutes shows his flair, though blocked, and Højlund’s physicality tests Lyon’s defense, despite a miss at 18 minutes. Bruno Fernandes, missing the target at 23 minutes, remains the creative hub, pushing for more.
Balance and battle in the first half
At 51 minutes, the 1-1 score reflects a closely fought match, with Lyon striking first through Almada’s brilliance and United clawing back via Yoro’s aerial power. Lyon’s four shots, two on target, align with their 0.2 shots-per-minute average in the competition, while United’s six attempts, three on target, match their 4.8 seasonal average. Possession splits nearly even—49% Lyon, 51% United—underscoring the midfield tussle.
Foul counts show Lyon with five and United with four, with Dalot’s yellow at 31 minutes the only caution. Corners stand at four for Lyon and three for United, hinting at both teams’ attacking intent. The 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes keeps the game teetering, with each side poised for a breakthrough before halftime.
Roar of the Groupama crowd
Lyon’s supporters turn the Groupama Stadium into a fortress at 51 minutes, their chants peaking after Almada’s goal at 25 minutes and echoing through Yoro’s equalizer. The sea of flags and noise pressures United relentlessly, boosting Lyon’s resolve, as seen in Cherki’s block at 29 minutes. The smaller United fanbase fights to be heard, but the home crowd’s intensity reigns supreme.
The atmosphere fuels the game’s fervor. Almada’s strike ignited the stands, and despite Yoro’s late reply, Lyon fans keep the energy high, urging their team to regain the lead. This electric backdrop at 51 minutes amplifies the stakes, making every play a test of nerve for both squads.
Tactical shifts in real time
Paulo Fonseca keeps Lyon proactive, with Almada and Cherki drifting between lines to unsettle United. The 25-minute free-kick goal reflects their set-piece strength, while Perri’s save at 33 minutes anchors the backline. At 51 minutes, Lyon balances defense and counterattacks, eyeing Mikautadze’s speed to exploit gaps.
Rúben Amorim adjusts United dynamically, leaning on set-pieces—as Yoro’s 45+5 goal proves—while urging Garnacho and Højlund to press higher. Casemiro’s shot at 24 minutes, saved by Perri, shows midfield intent, though Dalot’s caution at 31 minutes curbs their right side. At 51 minutes, United pushes for a lead, testing Lyon’s resolve.
Closing minutes of the half
With the score tied at 1-1 at 51 minutes, the final moments of the first half loom large. Lyon could snatch the lead with Almada’s vision or Cherki’s flair, while United threatens through Garnacho’s runs or another set-piece. Lucas Perri faces constant pressure, but United’s defense must also stay sharp against Lyon’s counters.
Glenn Nyberg’s refereeing keeps the game fluid, with four minutes of added time signaled at 45 minutes, though play extends beyond due to stoppages. The nine fouls—five by Lyon, four by United—highlight the physicality, and the 1-1 score at 51 minutes promises more drama before the whistle.
Stats shaping the showdown
Up to 51 minutes, Lyon’s four shots, two on target, match their Europa League pace, while United’s six attempts, three on goal, align with their higher average. Corners tilt slightly to Lyon at four against United’s three, and possession hovers near 50-50. The single yellow card to Dalot at 31 minutes marks the disciplinary tally so far.
The 1-1 score at 51 minutes captures only part of the action, with Almada’s 25-minute strike and Yoro’s 45+5 response defining the half. Both teams’ attacking output and defensive stands keep the match finely balanced, setting the stage for a thrilling finish to the first period.
Almada and Yoro steal the spotlight
Thiago Almada, Lyon’s 23-year-old star, commands attention at 51 minutes. His 25-minute free-kick, his third goal in eight Europa League games, and a near miss at 30 minutes showcase his skill. The former Botafogo standout drives Lyon’s attack, linking with Cherki and Mikautadze to keep United guessing.
Leny Yoro, Manchester United’s 19-year-old defender, answers with a clutch header at 45+5, his first in the competition. Rising above Lyon’s backline, he turns Ugarte’s delivery into a lifeline, proving his worth in a high-pressure moment. At 51 minutes, Yoro’s impact keeps United in the fight.
What lies ahead
As the clock ticks past 51 minutes, the 1-1 stalemate leaves the game hanging in the balance. Lyon could surge ahead with Almada’s set-piece magic or Cherki’s trickery, while United eyes a Garnacho breakthrough or Højlund finish. The Groupama Stadium’s roar fuels the tension, and the first half’s end remains unwritten.
The Europa League quarterfinal first leg continues to unfold, with the score reflecting a tight contest. Both teams show hunger, and the 1-1 deadlock at 51 minutes ensures the battle for supremacy in this leg is far from over, with more action still to come before halftime.
