The Women’s Champions League play-off second leg sees Manchester United try to bounce back from their first defeat of the season so far, a 1–0 loss to Brann. With United boasting home advantage and Brann in dominant domestic form, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown that will decide who advances to the group stage. In this match preview, we bring you everything you need to know about Manchester United vs. Brann in the Women’s Champions League, from predicted lineups and team news to where you can watch the game.
Source: Manchester United Women
Manchester United vs. Brann: Team News & Possible Lineups
Manchester United Women Football Team vs PSV Women Football Team Lineups are derived from previous match days. We take into consideration how strong the opponents are, what players are injured and of course team news before the match.
Team News Manchester United
It’s a quick turnaround for Marc Skinner’s side, who defeated London City Lionesses 5–1 at the weekend and now face Brann. Unfortunately, Millie Turner was stretchered off in that match. “We’ll wait and see,” Skinner said. “I don’t know what it is yet. Obviously, we’ll update people as we know, but Millie’s in the best hands, and we’ll make sure she’s looked after regardless.”
On a positive note, Fridolina Rolfö made her Manchester United debut, Gabby George returned in the second half, and Rachel Williams was named on the bench. The main absentees remain Simi Awujo, Hannah Blundell, and Leah Galton. An update on Millie Turner is still awaited.
What the coach has to say
After the match against London City Lionesses, Skinner spoke about Park and Malard’s performances:
On Park: “She gave their left-back a lot of headaches because of the pockets she picked up, and I felt that the goal was just an incredible quality that I think we can unlock in her. I think that maybe sometimes she’s been a little bit on the chain and we’re letting her off it to be able to create moments.”
On Malard: “She’s been in great form, really, really good,” Skinner reflected on our no.9’s performance. “More importantly, I think the now that she’s settled and we’ve got the best of her, she can be fluid across the front line, she’s a handful.
“I still think she could have been in position to score a hat-trick today, so I’m going to tell her about that,” the boss added with a cheeky smile. “But [I’m] really proud of the way she started the season.”
The head coach is expected to give a press conference prior to the Brann game.
Source: SK Brann Kvinner
Team News SK Brann Kvinner
Brann Kvinner compete in the Norwegian Toppserien and currently sit top of the table with 53 points from 20 matches. The league runs until November and consists of 27 rounds, with teams facing each other three times.
In the first leg against Manchester United, a record crowd of 16,019 turned out at Brann Stadion, where the hosts secured a 1–0 win.
We expect an update closer to matchday.
What the coach has to say
Leif Gunnar Smerud is the head coach of SK Brann Kvinner, having replaced Martin Ho after he left for Tottenham Hotspur. Since taking over, Smerud has continued Brann’s strong form. He may hold a small advantage in preparing for Manchester United, as his previous role was in the same league: the WSL, where he managed Crystal Palace. Hired to help the club fight relegation after replacing Kaminski, he was unable to secure survival and left at the end of the season to join Brann.
Manchester United vs. SK Brann Vinner Lineups
Potential Manchester United Women Lineups (updated prior to the match)
Tullis-Joyce
Sandberg
Janssen
Le Tissier
Riviere
Naalsund
Miyazawa
Toone
Malard
Terland
Park
Potential SK Brann Women Lineups (updated prior to the match)
Panengstuen
Stenevik
Authen
Tynnilä
Lehtola
Gaupset
Haugland
Bogere
Davidson
Eikeland
Zomers
Manchester United vs. Brann: Previous Meetings & Stats
Both Manchester United and Brann Kvinner are on impressive runs. Marc Skinner’s side suffered their only defeat of the season so far against Brann, including pre-season matches, but now have the home advantage. Brann, meanwhile, are on a 12-match winning streak, sitting top of their domestic league and carrying a 1–0 lead into this Women’s Champions League qualifier.
Last week marked the first-ever meeting between the two clubs. It ended 1–0 to Brann, with Ingrid Stenevik scoring the decisive goal in the 77th minute. The Norwegian side have conceded just two goals since June and will once again be a very tough opponent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Women’s Champions League Manchester United vs. Brann?
You can watch the Women’s Champions League match between Manchester United vs. Brann on VG+ and MUTV.
When was the last meeting between Manchester United vs. Brann?
Manchester United and SK Brann Kvinner faced off the first time this season. The first leg of the Women’s Champions League qualifiers was won 1-0 by Brann, thanks to Stenevik’s goal.
What is Manchester United vs. Brann kick-off time?
Manchester United vs. Brann kicks off on Thursday, September 18, at 20:00 CEST at Leigh Sports Village.