Endrick’s Strike Ensures Stalemate Between Celta and Lyon

Key Takeaways:

• Endrick netted a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw for Lyon against 10-man Celta Vigo in the UEFA Europa League last-16 first leg
• Borja Iglesias was sent off with 35 minutes remaining, leaving Celta Vigo with 10 men for the rest of the contest
• The tie remains evenly poised ahead of next week’s return leg in France, with Iglesias suspended for Celta Vigo

First-Half Momentum With Hosts

Despite Lyon topping their league phase group with ease, Celta Vigo entered the tie in superior form, displaying a direct approach early on. Borja Iglesias tested the Lyon goalkeeper with the home side’s first effort on target, before Corentin Tolisso responded at the other end. However, it was Celta who broke the deadlock. A swift counter-attack saw Williot Swedberg surge down the left flank and deliver a low cross that found Javier Rueda in the centre, who clinically finished to put the hosts in front.

🏁 𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟-𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 at Abanca Balaídos!

All to play for next week in Lyon.#CeltaOL ⋄ #EuropaLeague pic.twitter.com/G9jxIeQXU0

— Celta English (@CeltaEnglish) March 12, 2026

Lyon Grow Into the Match

The French side struggled to find an immediate response but gradually asserted control, with Endrick proving to be a persistent threat. As the second half began, Lyon’s dominance in possession grew, but they still faced resistance from a determined Celta defence.

Turning Point: Iglesias Sent Off

The match took a dramatic turn when Borja Iglesias was shown a second yellow card following a foul on Clinton Mata, reducing Celta to ten men with 35 minutes left on the clock. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Ionuț Radu produced a string of saves, denying both Endrick and Tyler Morton to protect the lead. Lyon substitute Steeve Kango also struck the post on his professional debut, narrowly missing out on a debut goal.

Radu’s reflexes kept Roman Yaremchuk at bay with a pivotal save from close range as the final stages approached.

Late Equaliser Sets Up Decisive Second Leg

With only a few minutes remaining, Lyon finally levelled when Endrick’s powerful low effort from distance proved too much for Radu, who was unable to keep it out, allowing the ball to cross the line. Celta’s inability to maintain their advantage, coupled with Iglesias’ suspension, leaves them facing a challenging trip to France for the second leg next week.

While Lyon’s impressive 13-match winning streak from December to February has faded, their resilience in securing a draw away from home will strengthen hopes of advancing to a second consecutive Europa League quarter-final.

Analysis and Next Steps

With the aggregate score tied and Celta facing the absence of their key attacker due to suspension, next week’s second leg in France will prove decisive. Lyon’s ability to capitalise on their numerical advantage and late momentum could be crucial as both sides vie for a quarter-final place.