Miedema: Playing in the big games is what the girls want | OneFootball

As the Barclays Women’s Super League and the Netherlands’ record goalscorer, Vivianne Miedema is certainly no stranger to the big occasion.

That’s why she’s so excited for the first WSL Manchester derby of the season, which sees us host United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday 15 November.

Kick-off is set for 13:30 (UK), with both sides looking to build on excellent starts to the new season.

It promises to be a thrilling matchup between two teams looking to make a statement in the early stages of the WSL title race, while also getting one over on our cross-city rivals.

Miedema’s been at the centre of that strong start for City. While she’s quick to emphasise that every game is important in the Blues’ quest for silverware, she admits a match of this magnitude always adds extra spice to the occasion.

“None of the games in our league are easy, everyone is good enough to take points off anyone,” the Dutch international begins.

“But playing in the big occasions and at full stadiums is what all the girls want, and what I want as well.

“I think that experience in itself [is a big draw], you get to see some of the world’s best players, the atmosphere and obviously being in a big stadium.

“I don’t think you need any more reasons to come and watch the game!”

SIGN IN FOR FREE ACCESS

Sign in to watch

Don’t have an account? Register now

Given her track record for finding the net, Miedema was unsurprisingly on the scoresheet in her first Manchester derby experience last season.

But it was a frustrating day for the Blues, as we ultimately lost 4-2 at the Etihad Stadium in January 2025.

Although City gained revenge just three days later with a 2-1 League Cup quarter-final win, a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in the penultimate game of the season consigned us to a fourth-place finish in the WSL.

GET YOUR MANCHESTER DERBY TICKETS

Multiple injuries to key members of the squad certainly didn’t help, but Miedema is looking forward to facing United with a healthier selection of players.

She added: “We had so many injuries last year, it was really frustrating because we have so much quality.

“We want to play those games fully fit and hopefully get the results we want.

“It’s the big games, the United’s, the Chelsea’s, the Arsenal’s that people want to come to the stadium for.”

Tickets are on sale now for our Etihad clash against Manchester United from just £15 for adults.

A family package is also available when you buy two adult and one under-16 ticket, which allows you to bring an additional under-16 for just £1.

Hospitality tickets, meanwhile, are available from just £35, including sports bar offers and a Tunnel Club Premiere which allows you to see the players up close.

There’s also an option to enjoy a Bottomless Brunch offer in the Mancunian, making the most of Derby Day!

Make sure you get yours by clicking here.