Manchester United beat Atletico Madrid 2-0 on Thursday night to advance to their first UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-final.
In their first full campaign in the competition, United made history by beating the Spanish side 5-0 on aggregate to advance to the last 16 for the first time since their 2018 revival.
Advertisement
Despite Atletico Madrid’s early dominance, Man United absorbed much of the earlier pressure and saw Phallon Tully’s Joyce make several key saves to deny Synne Jensen.
Any comeback chances were firmly dashed when Julia Zigiotti scored her third goal in her last four matches to end the tie. Jess Park continued her imperious form and added a second before the break.
Starting XI
Manchester United: Tullis-Joyce; Janssen, Turner, Le Tissier, Lundkvist, Miyazawa, Zigiotti, Naalsund, Park, Malard, Schüller.
Atlético Madrid: Gallardo; Medina, Menayo, Lauren, Pérez, Fernandez, Bartel, Benitez, Bøe Risa, Sarriegi, Jensen.
Advertisement
Jess Park scores another long-range goal for Man United
Despite United’s early domination, Atletico came close to opening the scoring in the tenth minute. Amaiur Sarriegi dribbled through the heart of United’s defense before laying the ball back to Jensen, who could only watch as Tullis-Joyce dropped low to parry the effort for a corner.
Moments later, Lea Schüller almost scored her first UWCL goal in red. A long ball over the top found the German, who calmly sent the ball down, but Lola Gallardo was quickly down to deny the Reds their opener.
Sarriegi continued to be a thorn in United’s side after another wild run that sent Atletico into the final third. After a smart through ball from Julia Bartel, Jensen found herself open in front of goal, but the Norwegian was unable to divert her effort beyond Tullis-Joyce.
Advertisement
The deadlock was broken midway through the first half, when United managed to convert one of their many chances. Lisa Naalsund delivered a cross into a crowded six-yard box which, in form, Zigiotti headed home.
United doubled their advantage moments before the break. The Red Devils were awarded a corner after Gallardo’s outstretched leg denied Hinata Miyazawa. With the fans in full voice, Park collected the ball in acres of space and launched a curling effort into the top corner. Gallardo could only stand and watch as the Lioness’ 20-yard effort hit the back of the net. A goal almost identical to the one against the London City Lionesses this weekend.
Man United confirm place in UWCL quarter-finals
The second half saw Atletico grow into the match but struggle to find the back of the net. While United continued to play free attacking football and were almost rewarded for their relentless pressure.
Advertisement
Midway through the second half, a long ball over the top proved vital in opening up the Atletico defense. Park dribbled down the wing and cut inside, but Ellen Wangerheim failed to score her first goal for the Reds.
Park continued to impress and almost added his second goal with just over 15 minutes to play. January recruit Wangerheim played the ball back to Park, whose effort ricocheted off the post and to safety.
Having all but confirmed his place in the Champions League quarter-finals, Marc Skinner has decided to give 17-year-old Jessica Anderson a debut. A special evening for the striker who played twice for England U-20 on the international stage.
Advertisement
With just five minutes on the clock, tempers boiled over for the Atletico defense. After continued pressure, Xenia Pérez was dismissed after knocking down the advancing Wangerheim.
What’s next for Man United and Atletico Madrid?
For both clubs, eyes are now turning to national football. Man United travel to London to face defending champions Chelsea in the Women’s FA Cup Round of 16. The Reds are hoping to avenge their FA Cup final defeat to the west London side.
Meanwhile, Atletico travel to Sevilla as they return to Liga F. Madrid currently sit sixth in the league table, just one point behind their opponents this weekend. UK fans will be able to stream the match for free on DAZN.
Advertisement
On the European scene, Thursday evening’s victory allows Manchester United to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in its history. They set up an exciting clash with reigning German champions Bayern Munich. The first competitive meeting between the teams, which is expected to take place near the end of March, will be available to stream on Disney+ for viewers with an active subscription.
Related articles from Her Football Hub:
-
Europa Cup: Austria Wien denied history as Sparta Praha reaches semi-finals
-
Sam Coffey dominates as Man City continue title chase
-
WSL: Sonia Bompastor extends her contract at Chelsea until 2030
