Manchester United secured a 3-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their Women's Champions League playoff on February 12, 2026, in Madrid. Goals from Elisabeth Terland, Melvine Malard and Julia Zigiotti Olme gave the visitors a strong advantage ahead of the second leg. The win positions United closer to a quarter-final matchup against Bayern Munich.
Manchester United took control early in their UEFA Women's Champions League playoff first leg against Atlético Madrid, held on February 12, 2026, at a stadium in Madrid. The match began with an error from Atlético's Vilde Bøe Risa, whose pass went straight to Melvine Malard in the third minute. Malard quickly spotted Elisabeth Terland's run, and the Norwegian striker fired a powerful shot into the top corner past goalkeeper Lola Gallardo.
United nearly doubled their lead soon after when Terland scored again, but the goal was disallowed for offside. The visitors continued to dominate, with Malard proving a constant threat. Just before halftime, in the 40th minute, Malard latched onto a through ball from Hinata Miyazawa, beat defender Silvia Lloris—who was injured in the challenge—and curled a finish into the bottom corner for United's second goal.
Atlético mounted pressure in the second half, creating several chances. Amaiur Sarriegi's shot was saved by Phallon Tullis-Joyce, and Bøe Risa's curling free-kick was tipped onto the crossbar by the United keeper. Synne Jensen and Rosa Otermin also tested Tullis-Joyce, but the hosts could not score. United weathered the storm and sealed the win in the 81st minute when Malard assisted Julia Zigiotti Olme, who drove an angled shot past Gallardo.
Melvine Malard was named player of the match for her two goals and an assist. Manchester United manager Marc Skinner described the performance as professional, noting the team's ruthlessness and solid defending despite rainy conditions. Atlético coach José Herrera acknowledged his side's reactive first half but praised their improved second-half effort. United defender Dominique Janssen called it a solid display, highlighting the team's unity. Injuries to Lloris and United's Anna Sandberg marred the game. The second leg will take place in Manchester next week.
