Philippa Kaur

More stories

  • 238 Shares50 Views

    in Soccer

    Man Utd fans ‘pepper sprayed trying to use the toilet’ in stadium after Lyon clash as French police slammed

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans were reportedly “pepper-sprayed” for trying to use the toilet after their Europa League clash with Lyon.Shocking footage circulating on social media shows fans in the away end coughing and struggling to breath clearly.Manchester United drew the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash with Lyon 2-2Credit: APScores of United fans were allegedly pepper-sprayed by police for trying to go to the loo after the final whistleCredit: JASON WHITE VIA STORYFULA video on social media showed travelling Red Devils claim French police fired tear gas into the crowdCredit: JASON WHITE VIA STORYFULUnited fans were left outraged by the alleged use of pepper-spray and tear gasCredit: JASON WHITE VIA STORYFULTravelling Red Devils fans witnessed their team draw the first leg of their quarter-final clash with the Ligue 1 side 2-2.French police kept them in Parc Olympique Lyonnais for an hour after the game to prevent potential clashes with home fans – a tactic not uncommon at high profile European games.But according to reports from travelling Old Trafford faithful, police hit them with pepper spray when they tried to briefly leave their seats to go to the loo.United fan James Young shared a photo on X of two fans covering their mouths after allegedly being pepper-sprayed.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHis accompanying caption read: “United fans pepper sprayed at full time trying to use the toilet in Lyon.”Bussed into stadium from a collection point miles away, metro down and an hour’s holdback after the game.”UEFA/ French Police once again treating fans terribly.”Club reporter Harry Robson wrote: “Frustrating end to United’s game in Lyon.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”Fans warned of an hour’s holdback, but with full access to facilities.”French police have locked off the toilets and concourse are now pepper spraying behind riot shields.Ruben Amorim responds to question about dropping Andre Onana after disasterclass against Lyon”Thanks for the hospitality, France.”A video circulating on social media appeared to show United fans – who endured a nightmare journey to the stadium due to Lyon’s metro system being down – reacting to French police firing tear gas into the away end.In the clip, a United fan can be heard saying: “‘Everyone has been f***ing tear-gassed here.”What the f***ing hell is going on here? How the f***ing hell can they be using tear-gas at a football match?”As the camera pans around, several fans can be seen covering their noses and mouths as they struggle to breath clearly.”Look at this, this is f***ing disgusting,” the furious fan continued. “People are being sick down here, f***ing hell.”Read More on The SunAnother video posted on social media appeared to show a group of United fans being pepper-sprayed while out on the streets of Lyon.United have yet to comment on claims that their fans were pepper-sprayed and subjected to heavy-handed policing, but, as have French police, have been approached for comment.Man Utd ratings vs Lyon as two Onana blunders earn under-fire keeper a ONE out of 10MANCHESTER UNITED were left ruing calamity goalkeeper Andre Onana as two massive blunders saw them leave their Europa League quarter-final first leg with a 2-2 draw against Lyon.The season-defining clash for both clubs became even spicier ahead of the game following a war words between Onana and ex-Red Devils star Nemanja Matic, with the Serbian dubbing the goalkeeper “one of the worst in United history”.It certainly riled up the home side’s crowd, who made their voices known as Ruben Amorim named an unchanged team – for the first time since his arrival – from the Manchester derby.But Onana was found wanting when he failed to save Thiago Almada’s inswinging free-kick to give the hosts the lead.Leny Yoro nodded in an equaliser just before the interval after Manuel Ugarte’s volley.And Joshua Zirkzee looked to have won the game for the visitors with his late header converting a Fernandes cross.But United’s joy was short-lived as Onana parried a shot straight to Rayan Cherki in added time, and the midfielder tapped in to leave the tie on a knife-edge.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils in France… More

  • 263 Shares74 Views

    in Soccer

    ‘He doesn’t like this team’ – Paul Scholes reveals what Ruben Amorim really thinks about Man Utd but will ‘never say’

    PAUL SCHOLES has claimed that Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim “doesn’t like” his squad.The Red Devils legend, 50, didn’t hold back in his assessment of Amorim and his squad following United’s 2-2 draw with Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals on Thursday night.Paul Scholes has claimed that Ruben Amorim ‘doesn’t like’ his Manchester United squadCredit: TNT SPORTSAmorim watched as Man Utd drew 2-2 with Lyon in the Europa League on Thursday nightCredit: ReutersAndre Onana made two huge mistake to gift Lyon their goalsCredit: ReutersMan Utd were unable to take an advantage back to Old Trafford with them for the second leg after two Andre Onana howlers gifted Lyon a level playing field for next week’s return fixture.Boss Amorim was still pleased with what he saw from his players, telling the media that his side “did well” and are “improving game by game”.But Scholes, who won 11 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues with Man Utd, wasn’t buying that assessment for a second – claiming Amorim doesn’t even believe it himself.Speaking on TNT Sports, the 66-time England international said: “I don’t think he believes that to be honest with you.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”I don’t think he likes this team. I think he knows he hasn’t got a great football team and I think he wants better – he needs better.”I think you could see that with the way he is on the touchline, he always looks disappointed to me.”The way he was speaking there tells me he’s disappointed with what he’s got. “He needs better, everyone knows he needs better if he’s going to challenge and be where Manchester United want to be. I think it’s all over the pitch”.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordHe added: “I don’t think they have control in the middle of the pitch. I don’t think the forward’s quality is quite there.”Look, he knows. He’s not stupid, he’s not going to say it, but he doesn’t like this football team”.Why Ruben Amorim’s Man United system is brokenScholes then hinted that it could take “two or three years” for United to fix their issues and improve on where they are at present.Amorim has made just one signing since his arrival at the Theatre of Dreams in November – the £25m arrival of full-back Patrick Dorgu.Man Utd will have the home advantage in next Thursday’s second-leg against Lyon.Man Utd ratings vs Lyon as two Onana blunders earn under-fire keeper a ONE out of 10MANCHESTER UNITED were left ruing calamity goalkeeper Andre Onana as two massive blunders saw them leave their Europa League quarter-final first leg with a 2-2 draw against Lyon.The season-defining clash for both clubs became even spicier ahead of the game following a war words between Onana and ex-Red Devils star Nemanja Matic, with the Serbian dubbing the goalkeeper “one of the worst in United history”.It certainly riled up the home side’s crowd, who made their voices known as Ruben Amorim named an unchanged team – for the first time since his arrival – from the Manchester derby.But Onana was found wanting when he failed to save Thiago Almada’s inswinging free-kick to give the hosts the lead.Leny Yoro nodded in an equaliser just before the interval after Manuel Ugarte’s volley.And Joshua Zirkzee looked to have won the game for the visitors with his late header converting a Fernandes cross.But United’s joy was short-lived as Onana parried a shot straight to Rayan Cherki in added time, and the midfielder tapped in to leave the tie on a knife-edge.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils in France…And pressure will be mounting on the players ahead of a game which effectively makes or breaks their season.Having been dumped from both domestics cups and languishing in 13th spot in the Premier League – winning just 10 of their 31 league games – the Europa League is their last roll of the dice.Up next is a visit to Eddie Howe’s high-flying Newcastle on Sunday, before focus can then switch to the Europa League second leg. More

  • 238 Shares50 Views

    in Soccer

    Rangers teenager stretchered off to applause after horror injury as TNT Sports refuse to show replay in Europa League

    RANGERS kid Bailey Rice was taken off on a stretcher to applause around Ibrox after a sickening head injury against Athletic Bilbao.TNT Sports declined to show replays of the 18-year-old’s nasty injury during the Gers’ astonishing Europa League quarter-final tie.Bailey Rice was able to applaud fans as he was carried offCredit: ReutersRice was hurt midway through the second period in only his second gameCredit: RexThe midfielder, making only his second European appearance, needed lengthy treatment midway through the second period after taking a heavy blow to the head.He was eventually taken off on a stretcher – as applause rang round Ibrox from both sets of supporters.Rice’s head was in a brace but he thankfully managed to raise his hands to clap fans back.And the gesture touched the heart of viewers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne posted: “Brought a tear to my eye. Bailey Rice on a stretcher and obviously in difficulties and still managed to clap the fans.”Most fans welcomed TNT’s decision not to replay the incident in which the starlet suffered his injury.One wrote: “Good work by the broadcasters for not showing replays of those injuries to Bailey Rice. Hope it is not too serious.”Rice’s misfortune cast a shadow over a night where Rangers defied surging odds against them to claim a first-leg draw.Most read in Europa LeagueThe midfielder had his head in a brace as he went off on a stretcherCredit: GettyBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKRobin Propper had an early yellow card upgraded to red after VAR intervened.But Rangers clung on, only to lose Rice and then survive double drama soon after.Andre Onana suffers shocking howler to put Man Utd behind after being booed and insulted during warm-up over Matic spatAthletic sub Alex Berenguer had a goal ruled out after a lengthy VAR check for offside.But in the same review, the Video Assistant also helped referee Istvan Kovacs award a penalty for handball against defender Dujon Sterling.However, Rangers’ keeper Liam Kelly – called up in place of Jack Butland – thwarted Berenguer from the spot.And Barry Ferguson’s home side even ended the contest with nine men as Sterling went off crocked after all five subs had been used.Hero Kelly told TNT Sports: “I never actually had much to do in the game. “Once we went down to 10 men the guys in front of me were absolutely brilliant.Read More on The Sun”We didn’t really know what was happening [after Bilbao scored] and then all of a sudden you hear penalty.”I just wanted to help the team, I don’t really care about me.” More

  • 225 Shares46 Views

    in Soccer

    Prince William stuns TNT pundits with football knowledge as Villa-loving future King is branded ‘man of the people’

    CLUTCHING his TNT Sports mic, Prince William casually dissected the tactics his beloved Aston Villa might employ against Paris Saint-Germain.“I think we all saw the Liverpool game and PSG’s intensity,” he told wide-eyed pundits Rio Ferdinand and Ally McCoist in a live six-minute TV masterclass.Prince William speaking at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on Wednesday nightCredit: TNT SPORTSWills talking tactics with pundits Rio Ferdinand, left, and Ally McCoist before Villa’s match with Paris Saint-GermainCredit: TNT SPORTS“They gave a lot of pressure, they pressed very high. And so I think for Unai tonight, and the team, it’s about managing that press.”For the uninitiated, the future King was warning that Villa’s manager Unai Emery needed a game plan to cope with PSG’s ploy of defending high up the pitch.Seasoned internationals Ferdinand and McCoist nodded in agreement.This was the house of Windsor as we’ve rarely seen it.READ MORE ON PRINCE WILLIAMA monarchy shedding its stuffy image for something more modern is a PR triumph.But make no mistake, Will’s deep love and knowledge of the ­people’s game is absolutely genuine.Shortly before Wednesday’s Champions League tie kicked off, William added: “Unai likes it when teams come on to them and play quite a high press but obviously there’s a limit. Can we get around the press? Can we beat it? So I’m thinking long ball a bit.”The punditry was fast turning into a public relations triumph as social media buzzed with approval.Most read in FootballRelaxed in a casual jacket, William then began analysing PSG’s new approach of targeting youngsters rather than big-name players.He said: “I think not having Mbappe there, I think the PSG guys have talked about that quite a bit in the media, around not having the superstars maybe makes it a bit more of a gel.Prince William on fatherhood & football | Royal Exclusive Special“Vitinha in the midfield, I’ve been really impressed by, bearing in mind he was at Wolves two, three years ago and he could hardly get a game, and now look at him.”For a man once known more for polo than the Premier League, it was impressive stuff.Ex-England and Manchester United star Ferdinand told him: “Do not go for a punditry job, please, because I could be out of the game.”Fans watching at home were equally impressed.‘Passion we all share’One said: “Better analysis than most pundits.” Another supporter added: “He knows his stuff, defo.”Others remarked on William’s accent which has lost the regal ­formality of his elders.Times Radio presenter Andrew Neil said: “Charles and Anne speak in the same mannered, old-fashioned, upper-class way as their parents. William is much more normal.”The Prince was also seen in the tunnel, greeting the Villa players with encouraging hugs after they had warmed up on the pitch.It’s difficult to imagine Prince Philip or King George VI greeting Tyrone Mings with the welcome “big man!” and an endearing embrace.William also hugged Marcus Rashford and was heard saying, “Marcus, nice to see you, I missed you earlier.”Welcoming Marcus Rashford, top, while wishing Aston Villa players luck before they took to the pitchCredit: ESPNOnline gossip among fans questions if William may have influenced the player joining Villa from Manchester United.To top it off William, 42, was later seen in the stands with son George, 11, celebrating wildly when Villa went 1-0 up (they later lost 3-1).Last month the Prince told Shaun Custis — The Sun’s Head of Sport — that he lurks on Villa fan internet forums under a random name.And in January the Prince enjoyed a cider with eight diehard Villa fans in a Birmingham Wetherspoon pub.Looking a little at odds in jacket and tie, he nonetheless impressed his fellow Villans.Student Daniel Jones, 18, from Burntwood, Staffs, said the Prince was a “lovely guy, proper down-to-earth” who “loves Villa and the passion we all share”.Unlike that other Villa fan, ex-PM David Cameron, the Prince won’t be muddling the team up with those other claret and blues, West Ham.While William undoubtedly enjoys relieving the stresses of life cheering on the Villa, the telly punditry and the immersion in the game is also a slick PR move.Wills celebrating Villa’s shock lead with Prince George in standsCredit: GettyPrince William looking down alongside Prince George during the game, which Will’s team lost 3-1Credit: SplashThe Prince’s aides will have thought carefully before sending him out live on air with Ferdinand and McCoist.Royals usually favour sport which involves a four-legged nag.Although the late Queen presented the World Cup to Bobby Moore at Wembley in her white gloves — and attended a clutch of FA Cup finals — horse racing was her great love.Prince Philip liked carriage racing, Princess Anne eventing and Prince Harry polo.William’s promotion of football compares with his brother’s love of the equestrian sport which isn’t generally known for having players brought up on council estates.This is what Prince Harry said on the Netflix website about his recent five-part documentary called Polo: “This series offers audiences an unprecedented, behind-the-scenes look into the passion and determination driving some of the world’s elite polo players, revealing the grit behind the glamour.”Better analysis than most pundits.Football fanThe show was mauled by critics and questions were asked about ­viewing figures.Meanwhile, William’s away days with the Villa are dragging the ­monarchy into the modern world.It presents a youthful and less formal side to the Prince of Wales away from charity visits and royal tours.Appearances at Premier and Champions League games flash around the globe at a time when the Commonwealth is being stress-tested.When William accedes to the throne he will be head of state of — at least currently — 15 nations including Canada, Australia and Jamaica.A 2022 tour of the Caribbean by William and Kate has gone down in history as a misjudged howler.The poor optics included pictures of the royals shaking hands with Jamaican children through wire fences and a military parade in which the pair stood dressed in white in an open-top Land Rover.Local campaigners saw it as a throwback to colonialism.Seeing the future monarch and his son as down-to-earth footie fans won’t harm his global image.Zooming on e-scooterAnd don’t bet against William turning up at the USA World Cup in 2026, a land where image is everything and the rival Sussex brand vies for attention.The Prince will know American opinion pours into Britain via social media and the value of being well-regarded on the other side of the Atlantic.Villa have a Wembley FA Cup semi-final this month and could reach the Champions League semis.Broadcasters will be clamouring for Wills to take the mic to offer his words of footballing wisdom.The Villa punditry — and other recent nods to informality — provide clues to what a King William V monarchy will look like.On a trip last month to Estonia, William posed for dozens of pictures with well-wishers.Living in Adelaide Cottage without a live-in nanny, he was spotted zooming around nearby Windsor castle last year on an e-scooter.The Prince likes to arrange his formal day around the school run, and trips abroad as King are likely to be shorter and punchier.Formality and, perhaps, some of the pomp and pageantry will be out.There was no public investiture when he became Prince of Wales.William will now have to delicately balance the mystique of the monarchy and its age-old rituals with shifting its image into the 21st Century.Read More on The SunHis performance in Paris this week will have endeared him to many.As a footie pundit might say, the boy done good.Wills’ nerdy footballSUN readers were already well aware of how good Prince William’s football knowledge is after my interview with him last month.But, as if it needed confirmation, TNT pundits Rio Ferdinand and Ally McCoist tested him out ahead of the clash between PSG and William’s team, Aston Villa, in the Champions League on Wednesday.Wills didn’t hesitate as he assessed the importance of Villa managing PSG’s high press and analysed the improvement in the French team since the departure of superstar Kylian Mbappe.His nod to Vitinha, PSG’s Portuguese midfielder, and his development since his days at Wolves was proper nerdy football.But when it came to predictions, the Prince let his heart rule his head, going for a 2-1 Villa win.Ally, however, proved he is still king of the pundits as he correctly went for 3-1 to PSG. More

  • 263 Shares46 Views

    in Soccer

    Man Utd ratings: Blunder-prone Andre Onana gets a ONE out of 10 but Leny Yoro superb as he bags first goal

    MANCHESTER UNITED were left ruing calamity goalkeeper Andre Onana as two massive blunders saw them leave their Europa League quarter-final first leg with a 2-2 draw against Lyon.The season-defining clash for both clubs became even spicier ahead of the game following a war words between Onana and ex-Red Devils star Nemanja Matic, with the Serbian dubbing the goalkeeper “one of the worst in United history”.Thiago Almada scored from a free-kick for Lyon as Andre Onana fluffed his linesCredit: ReutersLeny Yoro levelled with his first Man Utd goal just before half-timeCredit: ReutersJoshua Zirkzee looked to have won the game late onCredit: RexBut Onana spilt a shot to allow Rayan Cherki the chance to level the tieCredit: GettyIt certainly riled up the home side’s crowd, who made their voices known as Ruben Amorim named an unchanged team – for the first time since his arrival – from the Manchester derby.But Onana was found wanting when he failed to save Thiago Almada’s inswinging free-kick to give the hosts the lead.Leny Yoro nodded in an equaliser just before the interval after Manuel Ugarte’s volley.And Joshua Zirkzee looked to have won the game for the visitors with his late header converting a Fernandes cross.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut United’s joy was short-lived as Onana parried a shot straight to Rayan Cherki in added time, and the midfielder tapped in to leave the tie on a knife-edge.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils in France…Andre Onana – 1Booed on his first touch of the ball and had to deal with the noise all night. Had his first work to do in the 25th minute when he failed to keep out an inswinging cross from the left side with the ball bouncing in front of him before sailing into the top corner.Saved an effort by Corentin Tolisso which was straight at him, but then spilled the ball at the death to gift Lyon an equaliser after blocking a stinging shot. Most read in FootballPerformances like this only prove Matic’s point, reinforcing the claim he is Man Utd’s worst No1 goalkeeper in the modern era. And this comes with reports saying United are looking to replace him in the summer. Any more games like this and United chiefs won’t give it a second thought.Onana anticipated a touch with never arrived on an inswinging free-kickCredit: ReutersBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKNoussair Mazraoui – 6 Put some big blocks in and saved Man Utd from going 2-0 down in the first half with a vital interception in a two-on-one.Sent for a sandwich by some quick feet from Tolisso but the shot was saved by Onana. Made up for it with a huge block shortly after.Nemanja Matic brands Andre Onana ‘one of worst keepers in Man Utd HISTORY’ in savage response to goalieHarry Maguire – 5 Able to win headers in both boxes but too sloppy in possession. Senselessly burst out of the defence to pursue a lost cause which then allowed Lyon a dangerous attack at the end of the half.Started the second half with a stunning ball in behind for Fernandes to run onto.Leny Yoro – 8 Played everyone onside for the opener. Looked assured on the ball before heading in his first Man Utd goal.Made some vital touches on the ball when Lyon attackers dribbled towards goal.Yoro’s deft header guided the ball into the netCredit: ReutersDiogo Dalot – 5Linked up well with Garnacho down the right. Booked in the first half for a silly challenge when he had no chance of winning the ball.Casemiro – 5A spectacular overhead kick would have been his highlight of the first half.Otherwise solid in tackling and set pieces but lacking some quality in passing all game.Manuel Ugarte – 6Aggression was good in winning the ball back in midfield but then lacked the quality to pick the right pass. His volley from the goalkeeper’s punch at Fernandes’ free-kick on the stroke of halftime was headed in by Yoro to level the score.A clever cutback at the start of the second half went begging with no Man Utd player able to get on the end of it. Booked and subbed off for Mason Mount.Patrick Dorgu – 6 Some great play down the left flank saw him burst in behind before his pullback found Hojlund in acres of space, only for the Dane’s shot to trickle harmlessly wide. Struggled to beat his man when left one-on-one.Had his blushes spared when he slipped up against Ainsley Maitland-Niles. Delivered a superb cross to Garnacho but his team-mate could not direct it past goalkeeper Lucas Perri.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordBruno Fernandes – 7Almost opened the scoring from a cutback cross from Garnacho but saw the effort deflect over for a corner. His free-kick at the end of the first half eventually led to Yoro’s equaliser after the goalkeeper punched it out towards Ugarte, whose volley then found Yoro.Moved into the pivot after Mount’s introduction and had a bigger impact on the game, with United able to play through the lines more effectively. Delivered the cross for Zirkzee’s goal.Alejandro Garnacho – 5Knew he would be in for a game after being crunched inside 90 seconds. Some sloppy touches and passes summed up a frustrating first half.Made the wrong choice on a three-on-two by passing to Fernandes instead of freshly subbed Joshua Zirkzee. Later hit a Dorgu cross into the ground which the keeper was able to save. Decision-making continues to let him down.Rasmus Hojlund – 3Scuffed a great chance to score when open in space in the penalty area after a Dorgu cut-back. Clearly lacking in confidence with even simple passes left wanting in execution.Anonymous second half and you do have to wonder where he goes in these games. SubsJoshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 63 mins) – 7Superb header to give United the lead late on after he should have been played in by Garnacho earlier on.Zirkzee scored a good header after peeling to the far postCredit: AFPMason Mount (for Ugarte, 72 mins) – 5Gave the ball away and was fortunate not to be punished by Rayan Cherki. Booked seconds later as he got involved in a scuffle with Nicolas Tagliafico.Read More on The SunKobbie Mainoo (for Garnacho, 83 mins) – 7First appearance for United since December. Made his mark by winning the ball before Fernandes delivered the match-winning cross to Zirkzee. Booked for a tactical foul on Alexandre Lacazette.Victor Lindelof (for Harry Maguire, 83 mins) – 6His pass forward eventually led to the goal when Mainoo won it back for Fernandes who then crossed to Zirkzee. More

  • 263 Shares83 Views

    in Soccer

    Lyon vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: Matic has last laugh after Onana’s error denies United crucial first leg Europa League win

    MANCHESTER UNITED were seconds away from taking a lead back to Old Trafford in what was a thrilling Europa League quarter-final first leg – but Andre Onana’s blunder proved costly.The United keeper’s initial mistake saw his team go behind before Leny Yoro equalised in stoppage time of the first half.Joshua Zirkzee then thought he had grabbed the winner with a superb header late into the second half.However, Rayan Cherki was quickest to pounce on Onana spilling an earlier shot which then saw the game end level.RESULT: Lyon 2-2 Man UtdLyon team: Perri; Maitland-Niles, Mata, Niakhate, Tagliafic; Tolisso, Akouokou, Veretout; Cherki, Mikautadze, AlmadaMan Utd team: Onana; Yoro; Maguire, Mazaroui; Dalot, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Fernandes, Garnacho, HojlundFollow Man United’s Europa League clash below…Leny Yoro on the drawLeny Yoro spoke to TNT Sport following the late goal, saying: “we’ll try to win the game at home“We defended really well but they are a good team”“We need to be ready for everything, and unfortunately we conceded the goal.”On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedOnana’s night to forgetOnana had what can only be described as a stinker in the tie against Lyon.The first goal should have been kept out, as Thiago Almada’s free-kick sailed past him, with what looked to be an easy save.Then, under fire already, he spilled a late effort straight to Rayan Cherki, who pounced and scored a late leveller. Not the type of performance he would have wanted to put in after being called out by Nemanja Matic earlier in the week.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedRayan Cherki on the mapThe young Lyon starlet has been attracting attention from across Europe, but tonight he announced himself to the world.It was a good display from Cherki before his goal, but he showed experience beyond his years to pounce on that spill from Onana.He reacted quicker than the entire United defence, and now has a chance to become a legend at Old Trafford. His late goal sent Lyon fans crazy, and has surely added a bit more to his price tag for potential deals this summer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLeny Yoro’s first goalWhat a time it was for Leny Yoro to get his first goal for United.His headed effort at the end of the first-half was his first goal for United, but his celebration was muted. On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”A good mentality for the young defender to take into the second leg next week. Credit: REUTERS/Gonzalo FuentesCopy linkCopiedZirkzee in the goalsJoshua Zirkzee has struggled for goals since he came to England in the summer of 2024. However, amidst the late drama, it is easy to forget he scored a well taken goal tonight.His headed effort has given United something to take home, and the side will now be confident that in Manchester, they can turn it around. Credit: Phil Duncan/Every Second MediaCopy linkCopiedRecap: United held by LyonUnited and Lyon saw out an entertaining 2-2 draw in France. Andre Onana was the centre of attention, costing United twice as Lyon take a draw to Manchester.However, United will be confident that at home, they can get the job done.Copy linkCopiedRuben Amorim on Andre OnanaUnited manager Amorim has had a tough time trying to steady the ship since he joined from Sporting, and said: “we are really disappointed” after the late goal.On Andre Onana’s mistakes, he reassured the ‘keeper, and said: “it is important to focus on the next game”When one player has a mistake the whole team has a mistake”We continue to do the same thing.”Amorim insisted that he would chose the best XI, and showed no indication that he was ready to drop Onana. Copy linkCopiedThe late late show with Rayan CherkiLyon’s equaliser in the 95th minute was the latest goal Manchester United have ever conceded in the UEFA Europa League.It was also Lyon’s second-latest in the competition (94:30), after February 2017 against AZ (94:35). (via OptaJoe on X) Copy linkCopiedA pattern for OnanaSince the start of last season, no ‘keeper has made more errors leading to goals from Premier League clubs in all competitions.Onana leads the way, having made a whopping EIGHT errors leading to goals in the last one and a half seasons. Copy linkCopiedView of SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LyonYou could have predicted Andre Onana would be at the centre of it after the pre-match verbal spat with Nemanja Matic. But nobody expected it to be this eventful. The Cameroon international allowed an early free-kick from Thiago Almada to drift past him to give Lyon a first half lead.And should he have held the late shot that he spilled to give Rayan Cherki a last gasp equaliser.In between times United were good and goals from Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee means they are very much alive. It should have been better but for onana though.Copy linkCopiedScholes: “not a disaster”Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has insisted that this is not a bad result.Despite conceding late, he says it is “not a disaster,” as the second leg is at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedLeny Yoro on the drawLeny Yoro spoke to TNT Sport following the late goal, saying: “we’ll try to win the game at home”We defended really well but they are a good team””We need to be ready for everything, and unfortunately we conceded the goal.”On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFull-time: Lyon 2-2 Man UnitedWell, all the talk going into the game was about Andre Onana, and all the talk going out will be about Onana. He let an effort fly past him for Lyon’s opener, then he spilled the ball to Rayan Cherki for the leveller. Thiago Almada’s well struck crossed free-kick beat Onana to get the ball rolling in the first half, but United were soon back in it.Leny Yoro then got his first United goal bang on half-time to level the score, before late in the second-half Joshua Zirkzee sent the ball into the Lyon net to score what looked like the winner. However, Cherki had the last laugh, and a late goal at the end of the second-half means it is all still to play for as the sides head to Manchester next week. Credit: AP Photo/Thibault CamusCopy linkCopiedFull-time: Lyon 2-2 Man UnitedCopy linkCopiedLyon 2-2 Man United90+5’ – Lyon have snatched a draw, and Onana has his head in his hands again!Mikautadze fires an effort towards goal, and while there is power on it, it’s right at Onana.BUT – the United ‘keeper spills it, and it goes straight into the path of Rayan Cherki, he pokes home with ease to put Lyon level.They’ve snatched a draw at the death, and ultimately Matic has got the last laugh over Onana here. Copy linkCopiedGoal – Rayan Cherki (Lyon)Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-2 Man United90′ – Well, when the clock struck 90 here, Lyon were in command.But, as the clock strikes 90, they are trailing to United. It hasn’t fallen apart – anything but – as Lyon have played quite well in this game, but United have just managed to score when it matters. The Premier League might have fallen short for them this season, but it is still all to play for in Europe for Amorim. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-2 Man United88′ – Surely Zirkzee has sent United to Manchester in the lead?An audacious pass towards the Lyon box causes more problems than the French side would like to admit, and their failed clearance falls to Mainoo. Kobbie Mainoo then heads the ball to Bruno Fernandes, and is there anything worse in world football than Bruno in space in your box with time to pick a pass?If this is anything to go by, the answer is no – as he picks out Zirkzee, who heads home in fine fashion. Copy linkCopiedGoal – Joshua Zirzkee (Manchester United)Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United85′ – Another chance goes over for Lacazette. Rayan Cherki works his way into a channel for Lyon, and pulls the ball back for Lacazette, who is waiting for the ball.But, his effort sails over to the Lyon fans behind Andre Onana’s goal. Not quite the impact the former Arsenal star would have wanted from the bench, so far. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United83′ – No goal for Garnacho tonight, he goes off in place of Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim also switches in defence, as Harry Maguire makes way for Victor Lindelof.Might be one last roll of the dice for Amorim, as he aims to send United back to Manchester with a lead to defend. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United80′ – United VERY close to the lead. They’re like London busses – you wait ages for one then two chances come in 30 seconds. Garnacho gets onto the end of a wicked cross, and fires a good effort straight at Perri for a corner.From the corner, Casemiro heads an effort just wide, Perri looked like he was not going to get to it. It’s the closest United have been in the whole second half, with Lyon relentlessly passing it in the United half. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United77′ – It is getting lively out there!Mason Mount gets hit hard by Nicolas Tagliafico, and not happy with the challenge, gives Tagliafico a shove.However, the Argentine left-back was not ready to let Mount just push him around, and let Mount know it as he returned fire. A quick scuffle between the teams and the referee sent them on their way. Copy linkCopiedView of SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LyonBoth sides have had chances to take the lead – with the best one falling to former Arsenal man Alexandre Lacazette minutes after coming off the bench. Yoro could also have scored his second of the night but United would almost certainly be happy with a draw from here.Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United69’ – Garnacho blows a great chance for United.It looked as though he almost had too much time, racing away from the Lyon defence with Zirkzee right and Bruno left.However, he couldn’t decide where to go, and in the end went to neither, playing a poor pass to Bruno, which the Portuguese international was unable to reach. Mata collects, and gets it away.Copy linkCopied More

  • 275 Shares64 Views

    in Soccer

    Lyon 2 Man Utd 2: Calamity Andre Onana proves Matic right with two howlers as last-second goal denies Red Devils big win

    THE good news is Manchester United are still very much alive in the Europa League.The bad news is they still have plenty of work to do in the second leg at Old Trafford and much of that is down to Andre Onana.Leny Yoro scored his first Manchester United goalCredit: ReutersAn Andre Onana howler allowed Lyon to open the scoringJoshua Zirkzee’s late header looked like being the winnerCredit: APOnana was at fault for Lyon’s second goal after parrying the ball outPaul Scholes was very critical of OnanaYou could have scripted the Red Devils number one would drop a clanger after his incredible war of words with Nemanja Matic on the eve of the game.And sure enough, just before the half hour he made a complete mess of trying to keep out Thiago Almada’s harmless looking free-kick.But what was less expected was the way Ruben Amorim’s men responded to the setback and fought their way back into the tie.Leny Yoro equalised on the stroke of half-time with his first goal for United.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd a couple of minutes from the end, sub Joshua Zirkzee rose at the back post to nod in a cross from Bruno Fernandes.Who could have predicted the Dutch forward would be the saviour of United’s season when he was booed off by his own fans earlier this year.Just when the visitors looked to have the advantage, they lost it again as Onana could not hold a shot by Corentin Tolisso and Rayan Cherki prodded in the rebound.No doubt Ruben Amorim would have taken a draw before the game – but it could have been so much better but for his keeper.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe former Inter man lit the blue touch paper ahead of this tie by claiming United are ‘way better’ than their opponents.That drew an amazing response from Lyon’s former Red Devils man Matic – who branded the Cameroon one of the worst goalkeepers in the club’s history.Nemanja Matic brands Andre Onana ‘one of worst keepers in Man Utd HISTORY’ in savage response to goalieThe veteran Serbian was only named on the bench but the home fans made their feelings known – jeering every time Onana touched the ball.Their improving team have won eight of their last 11 matches and have improved considerably since Paulo Fonseca took over.That’s twice as many as United have won in the same period so maybe Onana should have studied the form a little more – or kept his mouth shut.United’s part owner Jim Ratcliffe had been on the wrong end of more criticism from club legend Eric Cantona earlier in the day.But the Ineos magnate made the journey across France from his regular base of Nice to take in the game.And he would have been encouraged by the way United settled despite a hostile atmosphere in the Groupama Stadium.They could have been ahead as Patrick Dorgu pulled a cross back for Rasmus Hojlund who got no kind of connection on his shot.Man Utd ratings vs Lyon as two Onana blunders earn under-fire keeper a ONE out of 10MANCHESTER UNITED were left ruing calamity goalkeeper Andre Onana as two massive blunders saw them leave their Europa League quarter-final first leg with a 2-2 draw against Lyon.The season-defining clash for both clubs became even spicier ahead of the game following a war words between Onana and ex-Red Devils star Nemanja Matic, with the Serbian dubbing the goalkeeper “one of the worst in United history”.It certainly riled up the home side’s crowd, who made their voices known as Ruben Amorim named an unchanged team – for the first time since his arrival – from the Manchester derby.But Onana was found wanting when he failed to save Thiago Almada’s inswinging free-kick to give the hosts the lead.Leny Yoro nodded in an equaliser just before the interval after Manuel Ugarte’s volley.And Joshua Zirkzee looked to have won the game for the visitors with his late header converting a Fernandes cross.But United’s joy was short-lived as Onana parried a shot straight to Rayan Cherki in added time, and the midfielder tapped in to leave the tie on a knife-edge.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils in France…A centre from the other flank by Alejandro Garnacho picked out Bruno Fernandes but his shot was deflected inches over the top.From the resulting corner, Casemiro’s acrobatic overhead kick was technically superb but went straight at home keeper Lucas Perri.Yet as has happened too many times this season, United conceded the first goal and it came from Lyon’s first effort on target.Maybe he thought someone would get a touch on Almada’s free-kick but he seemed to be caught in two minds.But no doubt Matic was sat on the bench smiling – and claiming an assist.Another former United midfielder, Paul Scholes, described it as an “awful” mistake and it was the eighth time one of his clangers has led directly to a goal.United had to dig in and make sure they did not go under and they did that – while looking dangerous on the break themselves.And deep into first half stoppage time they got an equaliser they probably deserved.A Fernandes free-kick from the right was punched unconvincingly to the edge of the box by Perri and Manuel Ugarte volleyed it back first time.Defender Yoro managed to react quickly – adjusting his body to flick a header beyond the home keeper.Fonseca is serving a nine month touchline ban in domestic football for squaring up to a match official in March.But he is allowed in the dug-out for European games and he had a job on his hands to pick his players up after that setback.Former Arsenal forward Alexander Lacazette was brought on and almost made an immediate impact, volleying wide after some brilliant wing play by Georges Mikautadze.Meanwhile at the other end, maybe Yoro was feeling full of confidence after scoring his first United goal but he was just off target with a low shot from distance.Another frustrating night for Hojlund came to an end as he was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee midway through the second half.That was a sign Amorim felt his team could still win this on.And chances were coming at both ends and Tolisso wriggled his way into the box but then fired his shot straight at Onana.At the other end, Garnacho, Zirkzee and Fernandes made a hash it when they had an overload on the break.And the Argentine forward came so close to a winner as he got on the end of Dorgu’s cross but was denied by Perri.They did get their goal as sub Kobbie Mainoo won an important ball and Fernandes crossed from the right.There was Zirkzee stealing in at the back post to give United a priceless lead.Read More on The SunThey could not hold on though as Onana failed to hold Tolisso’s shot and Cherki tapped in the rebound.One thing is for sure – he owes Amorim and United a big game next week. More

  • 250 Shares55 Views

    in Soccer

    ‘We are f***ing massive’ say fans as EFL club’s 2024-25 promotion season will be subject of new Amazon Prime documentary

    BIRMINGHAM CITY’s emphatic League One promotion will be the subject of a new Amazon Prime documentary.The Blues have bounced back to the Championship at the first attempt under Chris Davies. Birmingham City sealed promotion on Tuesday night with a win against PeterboroughCredit: RexAmazon cameras have been following the team throughout the campaignCredit: RexSpending big last summer, Birmingham revamped almost their entire playing squad for a first season in the third tier since 1995. American chairman Tom Wagner and minority owner Tom Brady dug deep to target an instant return to the Championship. The gamble has paid off, with the Blues running away with the league.And Amazon Prime cameras have secretly been with them every step of the way. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBirmingham secured promotion on Tuesday night after a 2-1 win against Peterborough. And the club confirmed two days later that a documentary has been in the works since last August. A press release said: “[The doc will go] beyond the day-to-day football operations and explore the unique cultural heritage of Birmingham City, as well as a supporter base who have remained loyal despite a sustained period without success or silverware. “The documentary will shine a spotlight on this community’s resurgence, illustrating how the football club plans to drive its transformation.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBirmingham are on course to beat Wolves’ record League One points tally of 103. And delighted supporters couldn’t help but revel in the limelight after the announcement. Darts legend Phil Taylor reveals he’d consider buying EFL club with Robbie Williams One fan joked on X: “We are f***ing massive.”Another said: “I do hope it goes over some of the really bad stuff that’s happened to us, the glow up will look glorious.”While a third cheekily added: “Will the 3-1 loss to Bolton be fitted onto the documentary?Wrexham are currently in second place behind Birmingham in the League One table.The Dragons could be set for a third successive promotion following their takeover by Hollywood duo Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. More