Man Utd Women’s Player Ratings: Champions League Setback in Norway

Manchester United Women’s player ratings painted a tough picture after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Brann in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers. The Red Devils now have a mountain to climb if they are to reach the group stage for the first time in their history.

Manchester United Women’s Player Ratings: Mixed Night in Bergen

Manchester United Women’s player ratings reflect a frustrating evening in Bergen, as Marc Skinner’s side produced an enterprising display but left Norway empty-handed. Despite dominating large spells and generating multiple scoring opportunities, United could not find a way past Brann’s resilient defence and outstanding goalkeeper Selma Panengstuen.

First Half: Missed Chances Set the Tone

United started brightly, with Ella Toone at the heart of every move. However, it was clear early on that converting chances would be a challenge. Elisabeth Terland missed a header for Brann, but the Red Devils failed to capitalize at the other end as Melvine Malard and Nikita Parris saw shots saved.

The absence of key shooting boots, following reports of lost equipment on the flight, became a talking point. However, Panengstuen’s heroics in goal made the difference, denying Toone on three separate occasions and frustrating the visiting attack.

Second Half: Brann Snatch the Advantage

The narrative remained unchanged after the break. United pressed, Jess Park and Leah Galton pressured Brann’s defence, but again, Panengstuen proved unbeatable. When the Brann keeper spilled a Dominique Janssen effort just before the hour, she recovered to save from Park in the ensuing scramble.

Just as United looked closest to scoring, Brann struck. Ingrid Stenevik rose highest in the 77th minute to head home from a set piece, sending the record-breaking Bergen crowd into celebration and giving Brann a vital first-leg lead.

Manchester United Women’s Player Ratings Breakdown

– **Mary Earps (GK):** 6 – Rarely troubled, no chance with the goal.
– **Ona Batlle:** 7 – Energetic down the flank, lacked final ball.
– **Maya Le Tissier:** 6 – Solid defensively, but distribution could improve.
– **Millie Turner:** 6 – Strong in the air, outjumped for the goal.
– **Hannah Blundell:** 6 – Reliable at the back, little impact going forward.
– **Hayley Ladd:** 7 – Broke up play, distributed well.
– **Katie Zelem:** 6 – Controlled midfield tempo, set-pieces lacked precision.
– **Ella Toone:** 8 – United’s biggest threat, unlucky not to score.
– **Leah Galton:** 7 – Persistent, but end product missing.
– **Nikita Parris:** 7 – Movement caused issues, finishing let her down.
– **Melvine Malard:** 6 – Industrious, struggled to test the keeper.

Substitutes: Jess Park (6), Lucía García (6), Lisa Naalsund (N/A)

What This Means for United

This result leaves Manchester United Women needing a victory at Leigh Sports Village next week to keep their European dream alive. Brann’s away goal means United must be more clinical and defensively alert to avoid an early exit from the competition. Marc Skinner will be eager to ensure his team sharpens up in front of goal and learns from the setbacks experienced in Norway.

If the Red Devils can replicate their attacking intent and pair it with greater composure, there’s every chance they can overturn the deficit. For supporters tracking United’s progress and the latest updates on the Women’s Champions League qualifiers, visit for more news.

Opinion: United Can Recover, But Must Be Clinical

On balance, Manchester United Women created enough chances to at least draw this match, if not win it. Brann capitalized on their solitary clear-cut opportunity, showcasing the margins at this elite level. United’s hunger and attacking intent are encouraging signs, but European progression demands ruthless finishing and unwavering focus. With home advantage in the return leg, the Red Devils remain well in the tie—provided they find the composure and quality needed when it matters most.