Manchester United took a step towards advancing to the quarter-finals of the Women’s Champions League with a 3-0 away victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the play-off round.
Elizabeth Terlando’s goal in the third minute gave the visitors the lead, before Melvin Mallard scored just before half-time.
Atlético remained unfazed in the second period and had several chances to equalize, including Vilde Boe Lisa hitting the crossbar, but coach Julia Gigiotti Olme has taken charge of United ahead of next Thursday’s second leg.
United took the lead when they quickly broke through the blocks and Mallard passed to Talland who beat several defenders and fired a powerful shot into the top corner.
Elizabeth Terland celebrates scoring Manchester United’s first goal with Melvin Mallard
And it may have been five minutes later, at 2:00, that Terlando made a stunning goal as Ellen Wangerheim headed home Jess Park’s cross, but the celebrations were cut short by the assistant referee’s offside flag.
United had the upper hand in the early stages and Atlético came close to holding on despite Mallard proving troublesome and firing straight at Laura Gallardo.
However, the hosts eventually settled into the contest, with Fiamma Benitez playing a one-two with Shin Jensen but unable to get a shot on target.
Manchester United had a two-goal advantage five minutes before half-time, with Mallard latching onto Hinata Miyazawa’s through ball and finishing superbly into the bottom corner.
The home side looked for a way back into contention and Amaour Saliezi fired a shot towards goal, but Faron Tallis-Joyce was able to equalize.
Atlético continued to knock on the door afterwards, winning a free kick when Jade Riviere brought down Rosa Otermin outside the penalty area and Boa Lisa’s shot was deflected over the bar by Tallis-Joyce.
Despite Atlético’s pressure, United made it three points after a breakaway from Mallard led to Gigiotti Olme, who buried the ball beyond Gallardo.
Janssen: United is like a big family
Manchester United defender Dominic Jansen told Disney+:
“It was a pretty solid performance. I think the second half was a little tough, but we had some good plays in the first half. Overall I’m happy with it.”
“The overall form of the team, that’s the secret weapon. Everyone is happy here. It’s like one big family. That’s the strength of Man United.”
“I came back on track after the break and it shows in my performance.”
On how experience helped in his debut Champions League season:
“Experience really helps. We’re a young team. We really want to go forward and create chances, but I think it’s also important to keep the ball at times.”
“I think there were moments today where we showed that patience on the ball. Overall, it’s good to have players with that experience and showing it on the pitch.”
“To be honest, I was a little nervous coming back here. I’m really happy with how it turned out.”
