Goals from Julia Zigiotti Olme and Jess Park ensured Manchester United Women secured a dominant 2-0 win over Atlético Madrid last week, completing a 5-0 aggregate triumph and booking a first-ever place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals.
That victory sets up a mouth-watering showdown with German champions Bayern Munich in March.
Zigiotti Olme finds the net on her return
Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner was forced to make four changes from the side that started last weekend’s win over London City Lionesses, with several players unavailable due to injury.
Hanna Lundkvist, Dominique Janssen, Melvine Malard and Julia Zigiotti all returned to the starting line-up, with the latter providing a crucial contribution.
Zigiotti Olme and Park find the back of the net
The match was competitive in the early stages, with Atlético creating several chances.
But it was United who struck first. In the 28th minute, Lisa Naalsund’s cut-back found Julia Zigiotti Olme, who finished calmly with her left foot to put the Reds into the lead.
Just before half-time, Hinata Miyazawa’s corner found its way back to Jess Park, who unleashed a superb long-range strike. Atlético keeper Gallardo had no chance as the ball nestled in the top corner.
And it was only the post which denied Park a second – the in-form midfielder came within inches of United’s third goal around 20 minutes from the end.
Park was subbed off shortly after, making way for 17-year-old Jessica Anderson for what would be the academy midfielder’s senior United debut.
The sterling performance booked United their first-ever place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals.
But not only that, it was a milestone moment for Marc Skinner, as he achieved his 100th victory in charge of the Reds.
A tasty tie against Bayern Munich awaits
Skinner’s side now face a challenging quarter-final tie against German champions Bayern Munich, with first-leg action scheduled for 25th March.
