“It’s disappointing and I’m quite frustrated, especially by the second-half performance,” said Dario Vidosic after the match. On May 2, 2026, at Leigh Sports Village, Lea Schuller’s stoppage-time equaliser salvaged a point for Manchester United against Brighton & Hove Albion, a result that could have serious implications for their Champions League hopes.
Schuller’s goal marked her first in the Women’s Super League for Manchester United, but it wasn’t enough to mask the struggles of the team. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Manchester United with just one win in their last five league matches. They now sit one point behind third-placed Arsenal, who have three games in hand.
Brighton took the lead when Jelena Cankovic scored their first WSL goal at Manchester United. The visitors had been riding high after recent victories against league leaders Manchester City and Champions League holders Arsenal. But as the clock wound down, United found an answer.
Marc Skinner, head coach of Manchester United, acknowledged the challenge his team faced: “If we provide the right service, Schuller will score goals.” His words rang true as Schuller finally got on the scoresheet when it mattered most. Yet, Vidosic’s frustration echoed throughout the pitch—”We can’t be at that level only for 45 minutes and expect to win,” he remarked.
The match was particularly poignant for Leah Galton, who made her final appearance for Manchester United. The atmosphere was electric yet bittersweet as fans celebrated her contributions while grappling with the reality of an uncertain future.
Key statistics from the match:
- Final score: 1-1
- Goals: Schuller (Manchester United), Cankovic (Brighton)
- Manchester United’s position: One point behind Arsenal with three games in hand
- Brighton’s recent form includes wins against top teams
Looking ahead, Brighton is set to face Arsenal in their next WSL game and has an FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool on the horizon. Meanwhile, Marc Skinner knows his side must regroup quickly if they hope to secure a Champions League spot this season.
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