Manchester United Women face an uphill battle to reach the Women’s Champions League main draw after a disappointing 1-0 defeat away to Brann in Norway. The third qualifying round first-leg clash ended with United frustrated, having dominated large spells but failing to find the net.
The decisive moment came in the 76th minute when Ingrid Stenevik rose to head home from a free-kick, punishing slack United defending. It was the only goal of the game and leaves United needing to overturn the deficit in next week’s return leg at Leigh Sports Village.
United’s performance was hampered by a curious setback before kick-off. A bag containing some players’ boots went missing during travel, forcing the club to source replacements at short notice. While new boots were secured, United struggled to convert their numerous chances, sparking the suggestion they had metaphorically left their shooting boots at home.
The match itself was a story of missed opportunities. Jess Park impressed on her debut following a deadline-day move, while Ella Toone saw several efforts saved by Brann goalkeeper Selma Panengstuen, who was in inspired form. Dominique Janssen and Melvine Malard also tested the Norwegian side’s defence, but United lacked the clinical edge required at this level.
Brann, roared on by a record-breaking home crowd of over 16,000, took their chance with ruthless efficiency. Signe Gaupset’s inswinging free-kick found Stenevik in space, and her header beat Phallon Tullis-Joyce for United’s first conceded goal of the season.
The defeat was United’s first in four games this campaign, having previously advanced past PSV and Hammarby in the earlier qualifying stage. For Brann, who currently lead Norway’s Toppserien, it was a historic night and one of their finest European results in recent years.
United now face a must-win clash in the second leg if they are to join Chelsea and reigning champions Arsenal in the new league phase of the competition. The task is clear: sharpen their finishing and make home advantage count, or risk missing out on the group stages altogether.
