Man Utd Women Fall to Brann, Face Uphill Battle in Champions League

Manchester United Women endured a frustrating night in Norway, losing 1-0 to Brann in the first leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifier. The Red Devils, aiming to reach the group stage for the first time in their history, now have much work to do in the return leg at home.

Manchester United Women’s Champions League Hopes Tested

Manchester United Women entered the tie full of confidence, determined to make a historic breakthrough in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Yet, their ambitions were dented by a determined Brann side, who capitalized on their solitary clear chance to seize a narrow advantage.

How the Match Unfolded

Despite being the stronger side for much of the game, Manchester United Women struggled to convert their dominance into goals at Brann Stadion. United created numerous opportunities, with Ella Toone at the heart of several promising attacks, but were repeatedly thwarted by Brann goalkeeper Selma Panengstuen, who produced a string of outstanding saves.

The Red Devils’ misfortune started even before kick-off, as reports surfaced about their players’ footwear going missing during travel. Still, United pressed forward with intent, only to be denied time and again—most notably when Panengstuen denied Toone on three separate occasions. Dominique Janssen and Jess Park also saw opportunities go begging due to the Norwegian keeper’s quick reflexes.

Brann, meanwhile, remained resilient and took their chance when it came. With just 13 minutes left, Ingrid Stenevik rose highest to meet a corner and headed home, sending the home crowd into celebration and setting a new attendance record for women’s football in Norway.

Player Ratings: Manchester United Women vs Brann

Marc Skinner’s side showed plenty of attacking intent but lacked the clinical edge needed on such a big stage. The defense, marshaled by Millie Turner and Maya Le Tissier, mostly dealt with Brann’s limited threat until the decisive set-piece. In midfield, Katie Zelem and Ella Toone tried to dictate play, but the breakthrough never came. Up front, Melvine Malard and Leah Galton worked hard but just could not find a way past Panengstuen.

Brann’s Defensive Resilience Shines

Brann’s disciplined defensive performance played a crucial role in their victory. Panengstuen’s saves kept them in the match, while their backline maintained shape, limiting United to mostly speculative efforts in the final stages. Stenevik’s late header was a testament to their belief and efficiency.

Record Attendance Adds to the Occasion

The match also made history off the pitch, as a record crowd for women’s football in Norway turned out to support Brann. The atmosphere was electric, spurring the home side on in the closing stages and making United’s task all the more challenging.

Next Steps for Manchester United Women in Champions League

Manchester United Women must now regroup quickly. They return to England knowing only a win at Leigh Sports Village will keep their Champions League dream alive. Manager Marc Skinner will look to sharpen his side’s cutting edge and turn home advantage into a ticket to the group stage.

For those following United’s European journey, stay tuned for more news and updates as the return leg approaches.

Opinion: United Must Find Ruthlessness to Progress

In my view, Manchester United Women will need to show far greater ruthlessness in front of goal if they are to overturn this deficit. Their performance in Norway demonstrated quality, but at this level, efficiency is everything. The return leg offers a chance to set the record straight—and with home support, United have every reason to believe they can still make history.