Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner has applauded his players for their fighting spirit, which saw them secure a nervy win against Atletico Madrid.
United edge past Atletico
Fridolina Rolfö’s first-half volley was all United needed to clinch three points at Centro Deportivo Alcalá de Henares and make it two wins from as many Champions League games.
United came under pressure after Dominique Janssen was dismissed just before the break, though parity was restored when Alexia Fernandez was shown a second yellow with 15 minutes left.
The hosts carved out a few half-chances late on in search of an equaliser, but United’s defence and goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce dealt with every threat.
United remain the only team in the competition who are yet to concede in the ongoing league phase.
List of teams yet to concede in the #UWCL league phase:
Manchester United
End of list.
— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) October 16, 2025
After the final whistle, Skinner spoke to Disney+ and highlighted his squad’s resilience after the closely contested victory.
Skinner hails his players
He said [as quoted by ESPN], “We had to defend for our lives in the second half. We started the game really well, and we should have scored a couple of goals … Then we had to withstand the Atleti attack in the second half.”
“Even when we went down to 10 players, we still had chances … To withstand the pressure for as long as we did, and still create chances, showed our character.”
“We’re a dangerous team to play against. Any opponent looking at us will think it’s not going to be easy.”
Rolfö told ESPN, “I’m super happy to be here, to make an impact and help the team.”
“A lot happened. Mentally, we had to be prepared… I’m very proud of the team.”
United are back in action on November 2, after the international break, when they take on Brighton and Hove Albion at Broadfield Stadium.
Featured image Michael Campanella via Getty Images
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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!
