In a night of pure theatre at Leigh Sports Village, Manchester United's women produced a breathtaking second-half comeback to overcome Valerenga 3-1, booking their place in the Champions League quarter-finals with one group game remaining.
Norwegian Resistance Meets English Resolve
The match began in nightmare fashion for the Red Devils as the Norwegian visitors stunned the home crowd with an early opener. Elise Thorsnes capitalised on defensive uncertainty to slot home in the 13th minute, silencing the expectant home support and threatening United's perfect European record.
United dominated possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Valerenga defence throughout the first half, with the Norwegian side growing in confidence as the break approached.
Skinner's Half-Time Magic
Whatever manager Marc Skinner said during the interval worked wonders. United emerged transformed after the break, playing with renewed intensity and purpose.
The equaliser arrived in the 56th minute through Brazilian forward Geyse, who finished clinically after excellent work from Katie Zelem. The goal ignited both the team and the crowd, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
Malard Makes Her Mark
French striker Melvine Malard, introduced from the bench, proved the match-winner with a superb 72nd-minute strike that sent Leigh Sports Village into raptures. The substitute showed incredible composure to find the bottom corner, completing United's turnaround.
Norwegian international Lisa Naalsund put the seal on the victory against her compatriots with a third goal in the 84th minute, ensuring the points would remain in Manchester.
Quarter-Finals Secured
This vital victory means Manchester United have guaranteed progression to the knockout stages with six points from their opening two Group B matches. The result maintains their perfect start to the campaign and sets up an intriguing final group game against Paris FC.
The performance demonstrated both character and quality, proving United can handle the pressure of European football's premier competition. With the quarter-finals now secured, Skinner's side can approach their remaining fixture with confidence and freedom.
