It was meant to be a chance for André Onana to silence his critics — instead, it became a showcase of exactly why they’re growing louder.
The Manchester United goalkeeper endured a horror night in Lyon on Thursday, gifting the hosts two goals, including a stoppage-time equalizer, as the UEFA Europa League quarterfinal first leg ended 2-2.
But this wasn’t just about mistakes on the pitch — it was also personal. In the war of words with Lyon midfielder Nemanja Matić, Onana lost the battle and the moral high ground.
The Match: United Undone by Individual Errors
United looked destined for a valuable away win after goals from Leny Yoro and substitute Joshua Zirkzee cancelled out Thiago Almada’s opener.
But in the 94th minute, a shot by Georges Mikautadze, which Onana should have handled, spilled back into the box and was buried by Rayan Cherki.
That was the second howler of the night from the Cameroon international, the first coming midway through the first half when he misjudged a looping free-kick that sailed into the net untouched.
What could have been a statement win now leaves the tie delicately poised ahead of next week’s second leg at Old Trafford.
Matić vs. Onana: From Words to Wounds
This fixture was already simmering before kickoff, thanks to a spicy exchange between former United midfielder Nemanja Matić and Onana.
The Serb mocked the keeper, calling him “one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s history,” after Onana claimed United were “way better” than Lyon.
Matić, who didn’t even play on the night, was spotted suppressing a grin after Onana’s first blunder. By full-time, the Serbian had all the ammunition he needed to feel vindicated.
Amorim’s Dilemma: Confidence or Consequences?
United manager Ruben Amorim, who spent part of Wednesday’s press conference defending Onana, found himself doing it again — albeit more philosophically.
“It can happen. We have one more game to change everything. That should be our focus,” Amorim said.
He admitted the dressing room was quiet and hurting, but insisted he remains confident in his under-fire goalkeeper.
Whether that confidence holds into the second leg remains to be seen.
Bigger Questions for United
Beyond Onana’s calamities, there were other worrying signs. Rasmus Højlund’s scoring drought continued, despite being given ample time before his substitution.
Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes created chances, but United lacked the killer instinct to finish the game off.
The defensive unit, which had improved in recent weeks, was again let down by lapses in concentration and poor decision-making — in this case, chiefly by their goalkeeper.
Second Leg Stakes: Redemption or Ruin?
With the tie level and Lyon buoyant, United will need a much more composed and clinical display at Old Trafford.
For Onana, the pressure couldn’t be greater — not just to redeem himself, but to prove he still deserves the gloves next season.
He has one more game to shift the narrative. If not, Ruben Amorim’s summer plans may very well begin with a new name between the posts.
