Manchester United Women's Player Ratings vs London City Lionesses: Malard Shines as Red Devils Secure Convincing Victory Ahead of Champions League Clash

The Red Devils may have work to do in Europe, but they have been full of goals during a faultless start to the new WSL season.Manchester United made it back-to-back victories at the start of the 2025-26 Women's Super League season as they crushed the London City Lionesses 5-1 on Sunday.Marc Skinner’s side put four past Leicester City on the opening weekend, and the Red Devils burst out of the blocks at the start of both halves in London, with the deadlock being broken inside three minutes as Jana Fernandez bundled through the back of Melvine Malard and Maya Le Tissier - making her 100th appearance for United - made no mistake when firing a nerveless penalty straight down the middle. Jayde Riviere then opened her goal account at club level in style when drilling a cross-shot high into the roof of the net from the tightest of angles with 33 minutes on the clock.United added two more inside the opening five minutes of the second half, with in-form Malard bagging both. She looked fractionally offside for her first, but the flag stayed down before she drilled across the goalkeeper, while her fourth goal in two WSL appearances this term saw the France international nod home a pinpoint cross from Anna Sandberg. Former Red Devils star Nikita Parris pulled one back for the hosts in the 76th minute, but Jess Park had the final say when picking out the top corner from the edge of the box with time running out.United enjoyed the best possible preparation for their must-win Champions League qualifier against Brann on Thursday. They trail that contest 1-0, but have been showing domestically that they have more than enough firepower at their disposal to reach the competition proper for the first time in the club’s history.GOAL rates United's players from Hayes Lane...

Player Ratings

1. Melvine Malard - 9/10: The French forward was unstoppable once again, scoring two crucial goals to lead United's attack. 2. Maya Le Tissier - 8/10: The experienced defender marked her 100th appearance with composure and authority, converting a penalty with ease. 3. Jayde Riviere - 8.5/10: The young winger opened her account with a sensational goal, showcasing her talent and potential. 4. Anna Sandberg - 7.5/10: The creative midfielder provided a crucial assist for Malard's second goal, displaying her vision and technique. 5. Jess Park - 8/10: Park capped off the win with a spectacular goal from distance, highlighting her ability to make an impact in key moments. 6. Nikita Parris - 7/10: The former United player scored a consolation goal for the Lionesses, but was largely kept quiet by a solid defensive performance from United. 7. Marc Skinner (Manager) - 8.5/10: Skinner's tactical acumen and squad management were pivotal in securing another convincing victory for United.

Key Moments

The match saw an explosive start with United taking the lead early through a penalty converted by Le Tissier. Malard then took center stage with two goals in quick succession, showcasing her clinical finishing and understanding with Sandberg. Park's stunning strike in the closing stages sealed the win and capped off a fine team performance.

Champions League Preview

With a crucial Champions League qualifier against Brann on the horizon, United's dominant display against the Lionesses serves as a morale boost. Despite trailing in the first leg, the Red Devils have shown their attacking prowess and resilience, giving them confidence ahead of the must-win clash. The team's depth and quality have been on full display in the WSL, indicating that they are more than capable of turning the tie around and securing a historic place in the competition proper.