Champions League debut was 'a dream come true'

Wednesday 11 October 2023 13:14

On Tuesday evening, Manchester United added a new chapter to our history books with a first-ever outing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Marc Skinner’s side went behind in the second half when Tabitha Chawinga opened the scoring for our visitors, but recent signing Melvine Malard came off the bench to equalise for the Reds. 

We’ll take the 1-1 draw to Paris next week for the second leg, with the eventual winner progressing through to the group stages of the tournament. 

Not only was it our maiden appearance in this competition as a team, but for several players, it was their first taste of European football Here’s what the Reds are saying about an historic evening at Leigh Sports Village…
Highlights: United Women v PSG Video

Highlights: United Women v PSG

🎬 HIGHLIGHTS | Watch the key moments from United Women's pulsating Champions League bow, against Paris Saint-Germain...

On X, Millie Turner described the experience as "a dream come true" and commented "all to play for, I'm so proud of my team."

Brazil international Geyse used the same platform to post a message in her native Portuguese language. This translated into English as: "First game of the playoffs and we still have a battle ahead. We will continue towards our biggest goal of the season."

Already a hit with the United fans, the summer signing from Barcelona ended her post with the words "Come on you Reds!"

Meanwhile, on Instagram, plenty of players were expressing their love for the support you have shown us once more.

“Thanks for making me feel at home,” wrote our goalscorer, Melive Malard. “It’s not over yet! See you in Paris next week!”

Full-back Hannah Blundell expressed her pride in what was a resilient display from the Reds, writing: “Proud of this team. Hard-fought performance right to the end! All to play for next week.”

Leah Galton, meanwhile, relished her reunion with ex-United midfielder Jackie Groenen, who now plies her trade with PSG. The pair were joined in a photo by another former team-mate, Kirsty Hanson, who watched on from the stands. 

“Reunited at last,” Leah wrote. “And Champions League debut.”

PSG V UNITED: SECOND LEG

With the score level at 1-1, it is all to play for when the Reds descend on Paris next Wednesday, 18 October, for the second leg. 

As the away goals rule does not apply, the game will be settled in extra-time or on penalties if it ends all square - with the winner advancing to the group stages. 

Fans in the UK and Ireland can watch the away leg live on MUTV, ManUtd.com and the United App, while Paris Saint-Germain hold the rights to show it globally as the home side.

Meanwhile, tickets for travelling supporters can be purchased here.

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