Lyon fought off a comeback from Athletic Bilbao to win 3-2 in their Europa League game this evening.

The visitors took the lead over last season's finalists after 22 minutes when Yoann Gourcuff crossed to Bafetimbi Gomis, who made no mistake with his header from close range.

Gourcuff turned from provider to scorer on the stroke of half-time as he netted to make it 2-0 to the French side.

Bilbao wasted no time in grabbing a goal back in the second half, however, scoring three minutes after the restart through Ander Herrera's strike.

The Spaniards were level just seven minutes later as Aritz Aduriz converted from the spot after Ander had been brought down by Maxime Gonalons.

Ibai Gomez almost completed a fine turnaround a minute later, but the Lyon keeper was equal to his shot.

The pendulum then swung back Lyon's way as they restored their lead through Alexandre Lacazette, who finished having been found by Gueida Fofana.

Steed Malbranque almost gave Lyon their two-goal cushion back in the 79th minute when his strike from outside the box looked goalbound, but it was well saved in the top-left corner.

Bilbao couldn't find a dramatic late equaliser, however, as Lyon held on to claim all three points.