Manchester United’s hopes of a first appearance in the group stage of the Women’s Champions League ended with defeat by Paris St-Germain in the second round of qualifying.
Marc Skinner’s side came into the second leg in the French capital optimistic of getting past the two-time finalists after having come back to draw 1-1 in last week’s first leg at Leigh Sports Village.
But, despite a decent display, they were undone by a superior PSG side containing a truly ruthless finisher in Lieke Martens.
The Netherlands forward put the hosts ahead on the night, and in the tie, in the first half with a fierce strike after following up Tabitha Chawinga’s low shot.
She then restored the advantage with another neat finish past Mary Earps just a minute after Lisa Naalsund had equalised for United from close range.
Martens’ second goal and the timing of it in particular proved a hammer blow to the visitors, who conceded again soon after to a sublime chipped finish from a tight angle from Sandy Baltimore.
Leah Galton thought she had pulled one back with a looping header, but it was ruled out for a push in the back of PSG defender, Clare Hunt, and Ella Toone struck the woodwork late on with an acrobatic effort.
The draw for the group stage takes place on today, with last season’s Women’s Super League winners, Chelsea, there as England’s sole representative.
PSG march on to a fifth successive Champions’ League group stage, while United are left to focus on domestic matters, beginning with a trip to Everton in the WSL on Sunday.
—BBC
