WSL 2022/23: How Manchester United kept their title campaign on track with an impressive tactical victory at Tottenham Hotspur – tactical analysis

Manchester United Women have been enjoying a stellar campaign in the FA Women’s Super League this season. They have surprised many this season as they were largely expected to be fighting for a Champions League place. Thanks to some sound tactical direction and excellent recruitment, they are on the verge of mounting a viable title challenge. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium provided the backdrop for this clash as Marc Skinner’s side ensured they went into the international break sitting on top of the league.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 67^th minute thanks to Leah Galton putting Manchester United in front via her fifth goal of the season. Tottenham Hotspur Women pulled level as former Chelsea striker Bethany England scored a wonderful solo goal. Just 14 seconds later they found themselves behind again as Molly Bartrip turned Lucia Garcia’s cross into her own net.

United had to see out the game with ten players as Ella Toone was sent off in the 80^th minute after reacting badly to an Eveliina Summanen tackle. This tactical analysis will dissect important moments of the game and look at how Manchester United emerged victorious.

Lineups

It’s fair to say that neither manager sprung any surprises with the tactics they chose to deploy. Marc Skinner set his team up in the same 4-2-3-1 formation that they have predominately used throughout his time in charge. His starting eleven consisted of Mary Earps in goal, Hannah Blundell, Maya Le Tissier, Millie Turner, and long-term Barcelona target Ona Batlle in defence. Hayley Ladd and Katie Zelem provided the double pivot in central midfield with ex-Arsenal player Nikita Parris and Leah Galton as wingers, while Ella Toone played in the number ten role just behind Alessia Russo, the striker.

Rehanne Skinner sent Tottenham Hotspur out in a 5-4-1 formation with Tinja-Riikka Korpela as the goalkeeper. The defence comprised of Celin Bizet, Amy Turner, Molly Bartrip, Shelina Zadorsky and Kerys Harrop. Mana Iwabuchi, Eveliina Summanen, Drew Spence, and Ashleigh Neville were in midfield, with Bethany England as the striker.