Elisabeth Terland's hat-trick propelled Manchester United into the Women's Champions League main draw for the first time in their history, as they overcame a 1-0 first-leg deficit to defeat Brann 3-0. The Norwegian striker's clinical performance ensured Manchester United's place among Europe's elite in the competition's league phase.
Facing her former club, Terland delivered a "perfect hat-trick," scoring with her left foot, a header, and her right foot. Her goals secured a 3-1 aggregate victory for Marc Skinner's side in the third qualifying round clash.
Manchester United displayed a dominant performance at Leigh Sports Village, quickly overturning Brann's first-leg advantage. Terland initiated the comeback, winning the ball high up the pitch and setting up Jayde Riviere, whose cross led to Terland's powerful strike into the top corner within the first nine minutes. Just four minutes later, Terland headed in Julia Zigiotti's corner, putting Manchester United ahead on aggregate.
Terland nearly completed her hat-trick in the first half, with a curling shot hitting the post. Although she had a goal disallowed for handball early in the second half, her persistence paid off in the 62nd minute. Melvine Malard's through ball found Terland, who calmly slotted it past Brann's goalkeeper Selma Panengstuen.
While Manchester United could have further increased their lead, Panengstuen made crucial saves to deny Fridolina Rolfo and Ella Toone. However, Terland's hat-trick proved sufficient to secure the historic victory.
Skinner maintained the same lineup from the first leg, demonstrating his trust in the team that ultimately delivered the desired result. He also injected fresh energy into the game through substitutions, effectively thwarting any momentum Brann attempted to build.
The victory signifies a major milestone for Manchester United Women, securing their place in Friday's draw for the new 18-team League Phase alongside Chelsea and Arsenal. It also marks Terland's second hat-trick in the competition this term, having previously scored a treble against PSV in August. Other teams such as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also confirmed their place in the league phase.
