“Just spectacular!”: United star reflects on her surprise starring role in the club’s landmark CL victory over PSG

Manchester United goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel has insisted she was not fazed by the occasion as she started in the club’s Champions League triumph over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. Middleton-Patel dazzles vs. PSG With Phallon Tullis-Joyce ruled out of the contest with a facial injury, Marc Skinner named Middleton-Patel in goal for the fixture. It was just the second United start for Middleton-Patel and her first both in Europe and at Old Trafford. But she did not look out of place, producing a string of fine saves that aided United as they cruised to a 2-1 victory, courtesy of strikes from Melvine Malard and Fridolina Rolfo. The shot-stopper denied Anais Ebayilin with a brilliant save just moments after Olga Carmona had equalised for the visitors to make it 1-1. After the final whistle, Skinner branded Middleton-Patel his player of the match, hailing the Wales international’s mental fortitude. Skinner also praised the 21-year-old’s ability to calm play. Middleton-Patel spoke to Disney+ and revealed that she found out she was starting the game only that morning. Middleton-Patel reflects on huge PSG game She said [as quoted by SheKicks], “I’ve been here a couple of times but only to warm up, so today was really special.” “I’ve trained with Phallon and Kayla [Rendell] day in and day out so when you get called on, I’m ready, and I’m not nervous.” “It’s one of them I’ve trained for. To get this moment is just spectacular.” She continued, “You train for these moments and to pull it off in a game like this at such short notice, I’m really happy with it.” United are back in action on Saturday when they face cross-town rivals Manchester City. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!