Joshua Zirkzee Admits Late Equaliser “Hurt” as United Set Sights on Lyon Second Leg
Joshua Zirkzee expressed his frustration after Lyon’s late equaliser denied Manchester United a valuable away win in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League quarter-final clash on Thursday night.
The Dutch striker thought he had secured a crucial victory for the Red Devils after scoring in the 88th minute to put United 2-1 ahead at the Groupama Stadium. However, Lyon’s Rayan Cherki capitalised on a rebound in stoppage time — following a fumble from Andre Onana — to level the match 2-2 and keep the tie wide open ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.
Speaking to MUTV after the match, Zirkzee admitted the late goal was a tough blow to take.
Alright. I mean, it’s not a bad result in the end it just hurts that the second goal for them came so late. But it is what it is we have to move forward and focus on the next game, he said.
Zirkzee, who has continued to impress in a United shirt since joining the club, also praised the overall team performance, acknowledging Lyon’s quality and the competitive nature of the encounter.
“It’s easy in this team, we make sure everyone is ready and when you get onto the pitch you just have to perform. I think we did well. Obviously, Lyon is also a great team so there will be moments when they’re dangerous. I think there were some good moments we can take into the next game.
While much of the pre-match spotlight was on Andre Onana — particularly following his tense training ground exchange with Nemanja Matic — the goalkeeper came under scrutiny for his role in both of Lyon’s goals. Onana misjudged a first-half free-kick and spilled a late shot that led to Cherki’s equaliser raising further questions about his recent form.
Despite the late setback Manchester United remain confident of progressing to the semi-finals especially with the return leg to be played in front of the Old Trafford faithful. Zirkzee is optimistic about United’s chances and is calling for a strong response.
Yeah, we have to win its 100 per cent clear to everyone, he added. So, we will go to the game and do everything to win. You saw last time what happened at Old Trafford against Sociedad so I think it would be nice if we can repeat that.
The second leg is scheduled for next week with Erik ten Hag’s side hoping to use the home advantage to finish the job and keep their European hopes alive.