Maguire Reflects on “Strangest Game” in His Career After Dramatic Europa League Victory

Manchester United’s Harry Maguire has described their dramatic 5-4 win over Lyon as the “strangest” game he has ever played in, following a wild 120 minutes of football that saw both teams exchange goals in a stunning finale.

Maguire, who scored the decisive second goal in extra time to secure a 7-6 aggregate win, called the game one of the most emotional and chaotic moments of his career. The match had it all: from United’s initial dominance, taking a 2-0 lead, to Lyon’s unexpected fightback, scoring four unanswered goals. Lyon’s comeback was overshadowed by a red card for Corentin Tolisso, and despite being a man down, they briefly led the aggregate scoreline. However, United responded in spectacular fashion, scoring three times in extra time to clinch their place in the semi-finals.

This match marked a historic first in European football, where five goals were scored in extra time, and United became the first club to score twice in the 120th minute of a European tie. Maguire acknowledged that the result perfectly encapsulated his six-year journey at Manchester United, filled with both highs and lows.

“Scoring the winner in such an important game was an incredible feeling,” Maguire said. “It’s the strangest, maddest game I’ve ever played in or witnessed, and it truly sums up my time at the club.”

United’s next challenge comes in the semi-finals against Athletic Bilbao, after defeating Rangers 2-0 on aggregate. With a crucial Premier League campaign still ongoing, manager Ruben Amorim plans to rest key senior players and trust young talents to finish the season strong.

“I’ll rely on the kids for the remainder of the league,” Amorim said, noting the fatigue of senior players such as Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.

“They’ve shown promise, and it’s an opportunity for them to prove themselves in a difficult moment.”

With players like Chido Obi and Harry Amass stepping up, United will need their youngsters to shine in the final stretch of the season.

Stay tuned to Betway Arabia for more updates and in-depth coverage of Manchester United’s European campaign as they aim for glory in the Europa League.