The first legs of the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals took place on Thursday, April 10, 2025. With drama, intensity, and unexpected outcomes, the eight remaining teams delivered a spectacular evening of European football. Here’s a full recap of an action-packed night.
⚔️ Lyon Holds Manchester United in a Dramatic Thriller (2-2)
At the Groupama Stadium, Olympique Lyonnais proved they can go toe-to-toe with European giants. After a balanced opening, Thiago Almada broke the deadlock with a stunning free-kick in the 25th minute. Just before halftime, Leny Yoro equalized for the Red Devils (45+5′), taking advantage of some loose marking.
Late in the game, Joshua Zirkzee gave Manchester the lead (88′), but in the dying seconds, Rayan Cherki capitalized on a mistake by keeper André Onana to level the score (90+5′). This draw keeps the tie wide open heading into the second leg at Old Trafford.
⚖️ Tottenham and Frankfurt Share the Spoils (1-1)
In London, Tottenham Hotspur failed to take the upper hand against a well-organized Eintracht Frankfurt side. After a defensive error led to Frankfurt’s opener, Pedro Porro responded swiftly for the Spurs with a clever backheel, assisted by James Maddison.
The second half saw Tottenham dominate possession, but they were unable to convert their chances into a winner. This tie remains finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Germany.
🧱 Heroic Rangers Hold Bilbao to a Goalless Draw (0-0)
At Ibrox Stadium, Rangers FC pulled off a gritty performance to hold Athletic Bilbao to a 0-0 draw, despite being reduced to ten men in the 13th minute after Robin Pröpper was sent off. The Scottish side defended valiantly under pressure.
Goalkeeper Liam Kelly was the star of the night, saving a penalty and keeping his team in the fight for a place in the semifinals. The second leg in Bilbao promises to be intense.
❄️ Bodo/Glimt Stuns Lazio (2-0)
The biggest surprise of the night came from Norway, where Bodo/Glimt secured a commanding 2-0 win over Lazio Rome. In a freezing but electric atmosphere, Ulrik Saltnes netted twice (47′, 69′) to hand the Norwegians a major advantage.
Lazio, wasteful and off pace, will need a near-perfect performance in Rome to turn things around. Once again, Bodo/Glimt proves that Nordic underdogs are not to be underestimated.
📅 All Eyes on the Return Legs
The return matches are scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, with everything still to play for. The favorites must show control and composure, while the underdogs will aim to cause an upset and dream big.
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