Europa League round-up: Lyon beat Besiktas on penalties as Ajax and Celta Vigo book their semi-final spots
There was plenty of drama in the Europa League on Thursday night as Lyon and Ajax left it late, while Celta Vigo edged out Belgian side Genk
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.French side Lyon secure their place in the last-four in dramatic circumstances, winning a 7-6 sudden-death penalty shootout victory at Besiktas.
Talisca scored the opening goal of a pulsating match after 27 minutes before Alexandre Lacazette ensured Lyon, 2-1 up from the first leg, were back in charge of the tie with his fine finish moments later.
But Talisca added his second of the night shortly before the hour mark to take the game to extra time, and latterly penalties, only for Lyon to prevail after captain Maxime Gonalons converted the decisive spot-kick.
Joining Lyon in the draw for the last four are Ajax after they secured a dramatic 4-3 aggregate win against Schalke despite being reduced to 10 men.
Schalke looked to have pulled off a sensational comeback after being 2-0 down following the first leg in Amsterdam. They took a 3-0 lead on the night, only for two late extra-time goals to swing the tie in Ajax's favour.
Nick Viergever and Amin Younes scored the crucial goals for Ajax in the 111th and 120th minutes, after Daniel Caligiuri's headed goal in the first half of extra-time appeared to have won it for Schalke.
In Belgium, Pione Sisto's solo goal sealed Celta Vigo's place alongside United and Ajax after they edged out Genk.
Holding only a narrow 3-2 lead from the home leg, Celta kept their opponents at bay with relative ease for more than an hour before Sisto fired them in front on the night with a thunderous strike from the edge of the area.
Leandro Trossard quickly pulled one back to leave the Belgians needing only one more to take the overall lead on away goals, but the visitors stood firm to make the last four.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments