Man Utd Women Secure Historic First Champions League Win

Manchester United Women’s player ratings tell the story of a determined and resilient performance as the Red Devils earned a 1-0 victory over Valerenga, marking their first-ever win in the Women’s Champions League proper.

Manchester United Women’s Player Ratings: Standout Performances and Key Moments

Manchester United Women’s first steps on the grand European stage may not have been marked by an avalanche of goals or attacking fireworks, but it was a night that will be etched in the club’s history. The Red Devils emerged victorious at Leigh Sports Village, securing all three points in a closely contested encounter against Norwegian side Valerenga.

Jess Park Shines Again in Midfield

Jess Park delivered yet another energetic and influential display in midfield, proving why she has become such a vital player for Marc Skinner’s side. Park’s relentless pressing, incisive passing, and ability to drive forward were evident throughout the match. She came closest to doubling United’s lead just after halftime, her shot forcing a smart save from Tove Enblom in the Valerenga net.

Maya Le Tissier Leads by Example

The defining moment arrived just past the half-hour mark. Manchester United had been steadily increasing the pressure when Julia Zigiotti Olme’s cross struck the arm of Arna Eiriksdottir inside the penalty box. The referee pointed to the spot, and captain Maya Le Tissier stepped up to calmly convert the penalty, giving United a vital lead in their inaugural home tie in the Women’s Champions League proper. Le Tissier’s poise, leadership, and defensive acumen were instrumental in keeping Valerenga at bay for the remainder of the match.

Man Utd Women’s Control Despite Late Scare

While Manchester United Women’s player ratings reflect a solid defensive performance, the Red Devils also created the better chances throughout the evening. Melvine Malard, although lively, missed a golden opportunity in the first half after failing to square the ball to the unmarked Elisabeth Terland, opting to shoot directly at Enblom instead. Both Malard and Terland would go close again in the second half, narrowly missing the target as United looked for a second goal to settle the tie.

Despite having the better of the play, United were given a late reminder of Valerenga’s threat when Elise Thorsnes’ effort fizzed just wide of Phallon Tullis-Joyce’s far post, but the hosts managed to hold their nerve and see out the result. This win not only marks a historic night for Manchester United Women, but also establishes them as the only English team to secure a victory in Europe this week, following defeats for Arsenal and a surprising draw for Chelsea.

Manchester United Women’s Player Ratings vs Valerenga

• Phallon Tullis-Joyce – 7: Composed between the sticks, made key interventions when required.
• Ona Batlle – 7: Solid defensively, contributed in attack with overlapping runs.
• Millie Turner – 8: Marshalled the backline with authority and composure.
• Maya Le Tissier – 8: Scored the decisive penalty and led by example at both ends.
• Jayde Riviere – 7: Provided stability and linked well with the midfield.
• Lisa Naalsund – 6: Industrious, helped control the tempo of the midfield.
• Ella Toone – 7: Showed creativity and linked play effectively.
• Jess Park – 9: Player of the Match, relentless engine, and constant attacking threat.
• Melvine Malard – 7: Dangerous runs, but missed a clear scoring opportunity.
• Lucía García – 6: Worked hard but couldn’t quite unlock the defence.
• Elisabeth Terland – 7: Intelligent movement, unlucky not to score.

Substitutes

All substitutes maintained the intensity and helped United see out a historic win.

What This Win Means for Manchester United Women

This first-ever group stage victory in the Women’s Champions League is a testament to the growth and ambition of Manchester United Women. The Red Devils displayed resilience, tactical discipline, and flashes of attacking quality. Earning all three points is a crucial confidence boost ahead of sterner tests in Europe, and sets a positive tone for their Champions League campaign.

For those following the Women’s Super League and European football, this result reinforces United’s credentials as a rising force. The individual performances, especially from Jess Park and Maya Le Tissier, stood out in a well-drilled team effort, highlighting the depth and talent at Marc Skinner’s disposal.

For more on Manchester United Women’s progress in Europe and all the latest updates from across the football world, visit for more news.

Opinion: Professionalism and Passion Shine Through

Manchester United Women’s historic win was built on professionalism, tactical discipline, and sheer determination. While the match lacked sparkle in attack, the Red Devils’ defensive solidity and leadership from their key players made the difference. With Jess Park’s relentless energy and Maya Le Tissier’s composure under pressure, United have the foundation to build momentum in Europe. The challenge now will be to add more clinical finishing as the competition intensifies—but on this evidence, United fans can be proud of a team making their mark on the continental stage.