A night of high drama at Old Trafford unfolded as Manchester United delivered a stunning late flurry to overturn a first-leg deficit and knock Tanner Tessmann’s Lyon out of the Europa League. In a match that swung on moments of brilliance and heartbreak, United’s relentless pressure in the dying stages saw them secure a 3-1 victory on the night (4-2 on aggregate), sending the French side crashing out in cruel fashion.
For much of the contest, Lyon—bolstered by the composed presence of USMNT midfielder Tanner Tessmann—looked poised to pull off an upset. The visitors had taken a slender lead from the first leg and defended resolutely for large stretches, frustrating a United side that struggled for fluency. But as the clock ticked toward full-time, the Red Devils summoned a devastating burst of energy, scoring twice in the final 10 minutes to break Lyon’s resistance and book their place in the next round.
Tactical Battle and Lyon’s Defiant Stand
Lyon arrived at Old Trafford with a clear plan: absorb pressure, disrupt United’s rhythm, and strike on the counter. Tessmann, the 22-year-old American midfielder on loan from Venezia, was instrumental in executing this approach. His ability to break up play and distribute efficiently allowed Lyon to weather early United attacks while posing occasional threats of their own.
The first half was a cagey affair, with United dominating possession but struggling to carve out clear chances. Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford probed from advanced positions, but Lyon’s compact defensive shape held firm. The breakthrough finally came against the run of play when Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette pounced on a defensive error, slotting past André Onana to level the tie on aggregate and stun the home crowd.
United responded with increased urgency, but Lyon’s disciplined backline, marshaled by Jake O’Brien and Nicolás Tagliafico, repeatedly thwarted their advances. Tessmann’s positioning and awareness in midfield were crucial, as he intercepted passes and recycled possession to relieve pressure. For over 70 minutes, it seemed Lyon might just pull off a famous victory.
United’s Late Onslaught Turns the Tide
Just as Lyon appeared to be in control, the match turned dramatically. Erik ten Hag’s substitutions proved decisive, with Antony and Amad Diallo injecting fresh energy into United’s attack. The equalizer came in the 79th minute when Fernandes’ deflected strike wrong-footed Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, sending Old Trafford into raptures.
With momentum now firmly on their side, United pressed relentlessly. Rashford, who had been quiet for much of the game, burst into life, driving at Lyon’s tiring defense. His cross in the 86th minute found substitute Rasmus Højlund, who powered a header into the net to complete the turnaround.
Lyon, shell-shocked and out of answers, conceded again in stoppage time as Diallo capped off a sweeping counterattack with a composed finish. Tessmann, who had battled valiantly all night, could only watch as United’s late blitz extinguished Lyon’s hopes.
What This Means for Both Sides
For Manchester United, this victory provides a much-needed boost in what has been a turbulent season. Progressing in the Europa League keeps alive their hopes of silverware and offers Ten Hag a platform to build momentum. The manner of the comeback—a testament to their resilience—will fuel belief that they can still salvage something significant from this campaign.
For Lyon, the defeat is a bitter pill to swallow. After showing tactical discipline and defensive solidity for so long, their collapse in the final stages will haunt them. Yet there were positives, particularly in Tessmann’s performance, which further enhanced his growing reputation. The young American has been a revelation since joining Lyon, and his displays in Europe suggest he could be a key figure for both club and country in the years ahead.
Tessmann’s Rising Stock Despite Heartbreak
While Lyon’s exit is a setback, Tessmann’s individual display reinforced why he is considered one of the most promising American midfielders in Europe. His composure under pressure, ability to read the game, and physical presence against top-tier opposition highlighted his potential. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, performances like this will only strengthen his case for a more prominent role with the USMNT.
As for United, the focus now shifts to maintaining this momentum in both domestic and European competitions. Their ability to dig deep when it mattered most could be a turning point in their season—one that reminds everyone of the club’s never-say-die spirit.
For Lyon and Tessmann, the dream of Europa League glory is over. But if this performance is any indication, the future remains bright. Meanwhile, Manchester United marches on, their late flurry ensuring this night will be remembered as one of drama, despair, and ultimately, triumph.
