Manchester United were unable to hold onto a late lead over Olympique Lyonnais in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday evening, with the game ending in a 2-2 draw.
Thiago Almada gave the hosts the lead in the first half with a free-kick effort that evaded everyone inside the penalty area, including goalkeeper Andre Onana, who failed to latch onto it despite it coming straight at him.
United restored parity moments before the break, courtesy of Joshua Zirkzee, who headed home.
The Red Devils continued to apply the pressure and finally took the lead in the 88th minute via a Joshua Zirkzee headed finish after some good work from Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
It looked like Ruben Amorim’s men were set for a big victory, but Onana committed another costly mistake, this time palming a shot straight out to Rayan Cherki, who equalised in the 95th minute.
While several United stars, including Onana and Rasmus Højlund, failed to rise to the occasion, one player who gave everything in pursuit of victory—but ultimately came up short—was Fernandes.
The skipper was brilliant again, and the standout moment was that amazing ball to Zirkzee that briefly gave United the upper hand.
Fernandes completed the one dribble he embarked on.
He touched the ball 65 times and found his teammates with 27 of the 39 passes he attempted. Three of his passes were key passes.
The playmaker successfully connected with three of the 13 crosses he aimed and five of the six long balls he pinged.
Fernandes created one big chance. He was required to vie for five ground duels and he came out on top on three occasions. He did not contest any challenge in the air
The Portugal international made three clearances and put in one tackle.
(Stats obtained from Sofascore)
United host Lyon at Old Trafford next week for the return leg, but before that, they’ve got a tricky trip to St James’ Park on Sunday to face Eddie Howe’s Newcastle.
Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
