Manchester United Women came out on top against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16 tie.
The Red Devils comfortably dispatched the Spanish side 3-0 to take a great advantage back to Manchester next week.
Two of the heroes from the night, Melvine Malard and Dominique Janssen, spoke to the club’s official site after the game.
Great start
United took the lead after just three minutes through Elisabeth Terland, and the players were asked how they were able to handle the pressure of a first knockout stage game so well.
Janssen, United’s composed Dutch defender, replied, “I think we started the game really well. The first half was very good. The second half was more of a battle, but in the end, a 3–0 win is a really strong performance, with some great individual displays as well.”
United’s standout performer, Melvine Malard, was up next to answer a question.
She was asked about how she was able to impact the match so much, scoring a fine goal and creating two others in the match. Malard stated, “we knew there would be space. The pitch wasn’t in great condition, so we needed to stay calm and play freely. I think we did that well, and it worked for us.”
Team play
Malard was then quizzed about her composure to play in Julia Olme for United’s third goal, and she asserted, “yes, it was very good. We spoke a lot today about playing together, and that’s what we did. That’s Manchester United — we play as a team. We need to continue like that.”
Janssen was then asked about the second leg next, but she insisted that the game is not over and they are going to Manchester to win the game and not just settle for qualification.
The Dutch international was then asked why she took the captain’s armband from Maya Le Tissier in the second half. She claimed, “it was a clever idea from Maya. We were trying to speak to the referee, and she was getting frustrated. So she gave me the armband and said, “Here, take this.” I tried to talk to the referee. I think it was a very smart idea.”
Finally, Malard revealed her delight at the away fans who travelled to Spain and claimed the players love and appreciate them very much.
United will next be in action at home to London City Lionesses on Sunday afternoon.
Melvine Malard stats vs Atletico Madrid
Source: Sofascore
Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images
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