Manchester United suffered an eye-watering 8-1 defeat to Lyon in the Women’s Champions League. The game ended 3-1, awarding the win to the French national team. Head coach Marc Skinner’s unexpected lineup decisions were questioned as Team USA faltered, failing even to establish a groove. The final played out against a torrentially pouring sky at Old Trafford. Manchester United battled valiantly for a huge three points, but it just wasn’t meant to be.
Skinner was never afraid to shake things up. He chose to exclude some big names including Ella Toone and Jess Park. The most intriguing aspect of his selection was the call-up of 37-year-old centre-forward Rachel Williams, whose experience was thought to strengthen the attacking pool. The jury team encountered significant roadblocks in creating real prospects. They were totally outclassed over the course of the match by a powerful Lyon team, particularly during that first half.
Changes in the Line-Up
That said, Marc Skinner’s tactical decisions going into the match were crucial. In omitting Toone and Park, he was clearly looking for a different spark in the midfield and attack. Choosing Williams to begin with was a big call. That depth of experience may be her greatest political asset—in a challenger worthy of the political capital she has amassed.
Even with these changes, Manchester United’s midfield looked vulnerable, especially during the first half. Lyon took full advantage right from the start in the first half. Tabitha Chawinga’s first goal, a beauty of a diving header, set the tone for the match to come. Manchester United seemed unable to build any substantial continuity, thus finding themselves down at the half.
“It is what it is. In the first half we gave them too much respect. In the second half we were a bit better, but they have a cheat code. She just presses a button and wraps it top corner.” – Marc Skinner
Second Half Improvements
The second half was entirely different with Manchester United appearing with much more purpose and intensity. Skinner’s more technical players up the ante when it comes to creativity and flow on the ball, making them far more dangerous going forward. Defender Maya Le Tissier was pleased with how the team was playing during this stretch.
That’s really the complete performance… outside of maybe how we came out in the second half, I thought we were better at on the ball. Much greater ingenuity and fluidity to the play on the field. That was a bonus. – Maya Le Tissier
Even with their newfound vigor, Manchester United were unable to poke home a goal until it was too late. USWNT player ratings Melvine Malard should have made it 1-1 with a free header from the center of the box. Sadly, she hit over, underlining their difficulties with the final touch. Lyon’s Melchie Dumornay would ensure that victory, scoring twice in quick succession late in the match, underlining her impact in this league match.
The Aftermath
This loss sees Manchester United fall to ninth place in the UEFA Women’s Champions League table. Skinner’s team will need to go back to the drawing board and come up with a new strategy. They’re hell-bent on coming back to get back in the race.
Lyon’s authoritative performance highlighted their technical prowess and ruthlessness all while putting Manchester United on the backfoot for most of the contest. It would be the French team’s effectiveness to exploit defensive breakdowns that would prove decisive in winning their hard fought match.
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