Lyon settle for draw with Vitoria de Guimaraes

Vitoria de Guimaraes have earned a vital point in the Europa League thanks to a 1-1 draw with Lyon.

Lyon enjoyed more of the possession in the early stages but they struggled to create many clear chances and almost fell behind when Chris Malonga struck an effort just wide of the post midway through the first half.

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Abdoulaye Ba came even closer when he headed just over the crossbar after being allowed too much space inside the box.

However, the visitors continued to look dangerous and they took the lead in the 39th minute when Moussa Maazou controlled a long pass before firing the ball into the bottom corner.

Lyon responded well after the interval and they were back on level terms in the 53rd minute when Arnold Mvuemba's inviting free kick was headed in by Maxime Gonalons.

The hosts should have gained the advantage when Clement Grenier whipped in an inviting cross but Gueida Fofana headed the ball past the post from close range.

Lyon were frustrated in the closing stages when Alexandre Lacazette looked to have won a penalty following a challenge from Ba but the referee changed his mind just moments later and gave the hosts a corner.

The home side were dealt another blow in stoppage time when Maazou was shown a second yellow card for persistent fouling.