United survive 10-player format to seal slender victory
Manchester United Women secured a 1-0 win away at Atletico Madrid to continue their flawless start to life in the Women’s Champions League. Fridolina Rolfo’s first-half strike was enough for Marc Skinner’s side, who had to stubbornly defend in the second period after Dominique Janssen’s red card was overturned on VAR review. The result confirms United as the only English club with a 100 per cent record in the competition so far this season.
Rolfo’s breakthrough and the turning point
Rolfo’s powerful volley gave United the lead on 25 minutes, capping an impressive spell for the visitors that had included a number of bright attacking moves on the edge of Atletico’s box. The goal marked Rolfo’s 20th in the Champions League era, a meaningful milestone for the winger who has become a key pillar in Skinner’s setup. United will feel they could have added a second before the break, as Melvine Malard and Julia Zigiotti Olme combined well only to see their efforts chalked off by a composed goalkeeper and the woodwork instead of the back of the net.
Red card controversy and a reshaped second half
The match took a dramatic turn just before half-time when Janssen, initially shown yellow for a challenge on Gio Garbelini, was reviewed by VAR and upgraded to a red card. Garbelini was subsequently stretchered off after the tackle. Despite the numerical disadvantage, United stood firm in defence for the remainder of the match, with Phallon Tullis-Joyce producing a key save to deny Luamy as Atleti pressed for parity.
Squad depth shines as the game wears on
With a quarter of the game to go and a new tenacious setup required, United’s depth became evident. Leah Galton’s introduction after the red card provided energy and pace on the left flank, and Malard continued to threaten on the break. Although Galton contributed valuable defensive and pressing work, a late chance for Malard went begging, leaving the scoreline intact and the three points in United’s pocket.
Words from the camp: Skinner and Rolfo on the night
Manager Marc Skinner spoke of the “Manchester United spirit” that carried his team through difficult moments. He highlighted the balance between technical quality and grit, noting that some games demand resilience as much as style. Rolfo, speaking to ESPN after the match, emphasised the importance of the squad’s collective mentality, praising the impact of players coming off the bench in securing the win.
What this result means for the group
United join a select group of early-season leaders, maintaining momentum in what promises to be a tightly fought group stage. The victory underlines the club’s European intent and their ability to handle adversity away from home, especially in a competition where every point counts when building a campaign from the group phase through to the knockout rounds.
Key numbers
- Final score: Atletico Madrid Women 0-1 Manchester United Women
- Goal: Fridolina Rolfo (United) – 25′
- Red cards: Dominique Janssen (Atletico) upgraded from yellow to red on VAR
- Man Utd: 10 players for a portion of the match after Janssen’s red card was shown
Looking ahead
United will hope to build on this result when they return to domestic duties, while Atletico Madrid will look to regroup and respond in their next European fixture. The clash showcased United’s ability to grind out a victory, even when faced with a numerical disadvantage, and reinforced the growing capability of the squad under Skinner’s guidance.
