Manchester United Women lost their first UEFA Women’s Champions League game, falling 5-2 at Wolfsburg on Wednesday evening.
United got off to a flying start, applying pressure, but it was the hosts that created the game’s first real chance when Svenja Hut struck the woodwork.
Moments later, the Red Devils drew the first blood, as Fridolina Rolfo, who also scored in the 2-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain, headed a cross into the net.
However, United’s lead only lasted for three minutes. Ella Peddemors drew Wolfsburg level, capitalising on goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel’s poor clearance.
The German side completed the turnaround after the half-hour mark, with Peddemors beating Middleton-Patel from 35 yards.
Lineth Beerensteyn gave Wolfsburg a two-goal cushion, but United pulled one back before the break through Melvine Malard, bringing an end to a frenetic first half.
Shortly after the restart, Beerensteyn nearly restored the hosts’ two-goal advantage, heading a cross narrowly wide.
United responded quickly, creating a chance of their own through Ella Toone whose effort sailed over the bar.
Middleton-Patel made her first big save of the encounter after the hour mark, keeping out Beerensteyn’s powerful header. But the Dutch forward finally scored her second goal, firing a low drive into the net.
Vivien Endemann completed the scoring for Wolfsburg, intercepting Jayden Riviere’s poo pass before going round Middleton-Patel and putting the ball home.
Man United must now avoid defeat in their next game against eight-time champions Lyon to keep the hopes of automatic qualification to the next round alive.
