United Women suffer major setback ahead of crucial European tie against Atletico Madrid

Manchester United Women travel to face Atletico Madrid in their first ever European Cup knockout game.

The Red Devils progressed through the league phase in an impressive sixth place, having won four of their six matches.

They will take on Atletico Madrid tonight in Spain at 20:00 GMT before welcoming the Spaniards to The Progress with Unity Stadium on Thursday, 19th February.

Fridolina Rolfo concern

Fridolina Rolfo signed for the Red Devils this summer and she has been a revelation.

She scored the side’s winning goal against tonight’s opposition in the league phase of the Champions League back in October.

The Swede has scored seven goals in 21 matches this season and has been one of the side’s most consistent performers. Unfortunately, according to the club’s official website, “Fridolina Rolfo, who scored the winner at Atleti in October’s meeting, is unavailable for this one, as are recent absentees Leah Galton and Ella Toone.”

Strong squad nonetheless

Despite missing Rolfo, United have been boosted by their new January signings.

The site reports, “included in the group for the knockout play-off first leg are mid-season signings Hanna Lundkvist, Lea Schuller and Ellen Wangerheim, who could make their European debuts for the club.”

Experienced centre-back Millie Turner is also back in the fold after her injury concerns earlier in the season.

In-form midfielder Julia Zigiotti Olme, who has scored three goals this calendar year, is also in the first team squad and will hope to make an impact tonight.

Last time out in Madrid, Dominique Janssen was sent off and she will hope to have a much more positive contribution in tonight’s vital match-up.

Here is the full list of United Women players who have travelled to Spain.

Goalkeepers: Safia Middleton-Patel, Kayla Rendell, Phallon Tullis-Joyce.

Defenders: Gabby George, Dominique Janssen, Maya Le Tissier, Hanna Lundkvist, Jayde Riviere, Anna Sandberg, Millie Turner.

Midfielders: Simi Awujo, Hinata Miyazawa, Lisa Naalsund, Jess Park, Julia Zigiotti.

Forwards: Melvine Malard, Lea Schuller, Elisabeth Terland, Ellen Wangerheim.

Fridolina Rolfo Man United season stats

Source: fotmob.com
Featured image Aitor Alcade via Getty Images

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