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**Lyon Secures Euro 2024 Ticket with Thrilling 4-2 Victory Over Brest** Lyon's quest for the Euro 2024 tournament reached a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, as they secured their qualification with a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Brest in a Ligue 1 qualifier. The match, played at Stade de Lyon, was a rollercoaster encounter that saw both teams display attacking intent and resilience, ultimately capping Lyon's 13-year Euro absence with a memorable win. The game began with high stakes, as Lyon aimed to end a decade without a major European trophy. Brest, known for their youthful exuberance, arrived with a point to prove, aiming to disrupt the more experienced Lyon side. The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams feeling their way into the game. Brest's Terem Moffi opened the scoring in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error, but Lyon responded swiftly. Amin Gouiri, the tournament's top scorer, equalized just six minutes later with a clinical finish, showcasing his composure under pressure. The second half saw the game explode into life. Brest struck again in the 55th minute through Moffi, who capitalized on a defensive miscue to double his tally. However, Lyon refused to back down, and the introduction of young starlet Maxime Teroni injected energy into their play. Teroni's persistence paid off in the 63rd minute, as he latched onto a loose ball in the box and fired a powerful shot past Brest goalkeeper Wilson Placide to level the score at 2-2. As the game approached its conclusion, the tension was palpable. Lyon's relentless pressure told, and in the 88th minute, they took the lead for the first time since halftime through a well-timed through ball from Lucas Paqueta, who slid in Argelin to slot home. The final twist came in stoppage time when Moffi, already on a hat-trick, thought he had won it for Brest, only for the goal to be ruled offside after a pitch invasion. The linesman's decision left the Brest players incensed, but Lyon held firm, celebrating their hard-earned victory. This victory marks the end of a long wait for Lyon, who have now secured their place in Euro 2024. The team's ability to dig deep and adapt during the match was a testament to their character. For Brest, despite a valiant effort, the loss underscores the gulf in experience and quality that may take time to bridge. The match, filled with drama and emotion, will be remembered for Lyon's resilience and Brest's spirited performance, as both teams prepare for their respective futures. Lyon's fans erupted in celebration, their chants echoing through the stadium. For a club that has been through so much, this victory is a beacon of hope and a reminder of their enduring quality on the European stage. As the players celebrated on the pitch, the weight of qualification finally sinking in, one thing is clear: Lyon is back, and Euro 2024 cannot come soon enough. |
