Aston Villa seek to repeat “perfect game” against Liverpool

By Hope Robinson (5/2/26)

Above:  Aston Villa manager Natalia Arroyo, coaching training session Photo: bbc.co.uk

Hope Robinson attended Aston Villa’s press conference this week ahead of their Women’s Super League clash with Liverpool at St Helens Stadium on Sunday, with Villa aiming to climb the table as Liverpool arrive shortly after their first league win.

Fixture Overview

Liverpool host Aston Villa on Sunday 8th February at St Helens Stadium, with kick-off at 12:00pm, in a Women’s Super League fixture that could move Liverpool out of last place, and Aston Villa more competitive for a spot just outside the top five.

Aston Villa arrive in the North West following three back-to-back defeats spanning across the FA Cup, as well as the league, showing their need to regain some form and momentum. Liverpool, on the other hand, have won two of three of their last games, with their 2-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur, marking their first league win of the season.

Both sides faced Manchester United in their last two outings, with Aston Villa falling to a 4-1 defeat and Liverpool losing 3-1, underlining the similarities in their recent form. Each team have also strengthened during the transfer window, with Liverpool signing Republic of Ireland international Denise O’Sullivan, who scored on her debut, while Aston Villa’s additions Jenna Nighswonger and Oriane Jean-Francois made positive early impacts in their first minutes for the club.

Form Guide

While both teams have experienced mixed recent form, Aston Villa have been stronger across the season as a whole. Villa sit on 16 league points from four wins, four draws and six defeats, compared to Liverpool’s seven points from one win, four draws and nine losses.

Despite recent results, Villa manager Natalia Arroyo believes progress must be assessed with a wider lens. “It’s difficult sometimes to analyse when you are in the middle, so you have to zoom out and let time talk,” she said. “We are in a better place than we were one, two, three years ago. We are not there yet, but we are doing good things and competing most of the time.”

Previous Meetings

The recent history between the two sides points to a closely matched contest, with three wins apiece and two draws across their meetings. Earlier this season, Aston Villa recorded an emphatic 3-0 home victory, with captain Rachael Daly scoring inside the opening minute before completing a brace.

Reflecting on that result, Arroyo described it as close to flawless. “It was a very good game from us. Scoring an early goal gave us confidence and allowed us to play calmly. It was the ideal game, dominating the match and the score,” she said. “We were lucky and successful, but we are not expecting the same game on Sunday.”

Team news

Aston Villa will be boosted by the return of goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck to training, though several players remain unavailable. “Similar to Everton, it is good to have Ellie Roebuck back, she trained well this week,” Arroyo confirmed. “Lucia Kendall and Gabi Nunes have had some training sessions but are not available yet. They are getting closer. Other players, such as Rachael Daly, are still far from coming back.”

Tactical Battle

Arroyo expects a more demanding test than Villa faced earlier in the campaign, particularly following Liverpool’s activity in the transfer market. “They had a good window and now have key players in different positions, giving them more options and more threats in behind,” she said.

Villa will also be aiming to address moments that have proved costly in recent matches. “We get emotional as coaches and players. If we are conceding from corners, we are trying to follow a bigger plan and develop our game model,” Arroyo explained. “We need to see the situations that are causing us problems. If we think we will concede, then we will. We need to change that mindset.”

Players to Watch

Denise O’Sullivan has already emerged as a key figure for Liverpool, bringing experience from her time at North Carolina Courage and making an immediate impact with a goal on debut. Her presence in midfield has lifted Liverpool’s tempo and composure.

For Aston Villa, Kirsty Hanson remains a consistent attacking threat. The winger’s direct approach, powerful shooting from wide areas and ability to score from distance have seen her register seven goals this season.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Aston Villa’s ability to control matches for long spells has been evident, though sustaining performance levels across the full 90 minutes remains an area for improvement. “We are building a solid base, but we are missing that step of competing for the full match,” Arroyo said. “Not just 70 minutes, but 90 minutes.”

Mental resilience has also been a recent focus. “This game is technical, physical, and mental all in one. There are moments you need to deal with anxiety and bravery. It is part of the game,” she added.

Manager’s View

With Villa sitting eighth and only a narrow points gap separating them from sixth, Arroyo stressed the importance of ambition alongside patience. “It is super important. Our ambition is to be as high as possible, but in a consistent way,” she said. “We finished sixth last time without our best season, which shows what we want every day.”

She also called for greater honesty and competitiveness following recent setbacks. “We failed last weekend. We were not able to copy the good performance. We need to compete better in the details. First competing, then winning.”

Key Matchday Battles

Villa will need to match Liverpool’s physicality while maintaining composure in decisive moments. Arroyo referenced the narrow margins from their draw against Everton as a reminder of the challenge ahead. “We were better in some things, but two moments stopped us from having a clean sheet,” she said. “We cannot just say what we want, we need to dominate everything.”

Despite recent frustrations, Arroyo remains focused on the bigger picture. “We should relax, have fun, enjoy, challenge ourselves and we will get there,” she said. “We will fight with pride until the end of the season, and let’s see if we can repeat the perfect game we had at Villa Park.”

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From Manchester City to Glasgow City: Codie Thomas heads north

By Gethin Thurlow (5/2/26)

Above: Codie Thomas donning her new colours in her new city Photo: Georgia Reynolds/Glasgow City FC

SWPL leaders Glasgow City have announced the loan signing of young Man City right back Codie Thomas until the end of the season.

Thomas, 19, has Champions League experience for City, playing in that injury-affected 2024/25 season. Struggling for gametime this year, with starting right back Kerstin Casparij in world class form, the youngster, who’s been with City her entire football career, comes to Scotland looking for regular starts to help her into that next stage of development.

Thomas becomes the third Man City player making a loan move to the SWPL this window, after striker Poppy Pritchard and left back Tara O’Hanlon signed for Celtic earlier in January. Their tenures have started positively, with Pritchard displacing starting striker Saoirse Noonan in just her second game, scoring a goal in her first start against Rangers in a crucial cup semi final.

Glasgow’s newest resident told her club “I’m really excited to be here, go out there, get some minutes, and show everyone what I am about. 

“The game in Scotland is really interesting, and every match is going to be tough. It’s a really good league to come into and to play in.”

Thomas’s new Head Coach, Leanne Ross described the defender as “an energetic player who is composed on the ball and works hard out of possession.”In terms of her place within the squad, Ross said “As we enter a crucial period of the campaign, Codie’s arrival adds more competition and quality to the squad, and we look forward to seeing how she contributes during her time in Scotland.”

It is an interesting move, and raises potential questions about the injury status of Lisa Evans, who had to be substituted off in the first half against Rangers in their last league game, and didn’t make the squad for Saturday’s Sky Sports Cup semi final in Edinburgh.

While City’s defence is pretty set in stone – with Amy Muir starting almost every game at left back and the Kimberly Smit/ Lana Golob centre back partnership remaining relatively unbroken, the right back position is generally shared out more. While Lisa Evans is often the starter, Chloe Warrington always enjoys her fair share of minutes too.

Whether this move is a response to an Evans injury or something that City were planning anyway, the Petershill faithful can expect a strong and dynamic right back, who loves to help out the attack in wide areas and can more than hold her own in defence. As both of her clubs fight for titles in their respective countries, Codie Thomas will look to return to Manchester a changed person and footballer.

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Perth Glory’s Stephen Peters and Natalie Tathem Preview Distance Derby Against Wellington Pheonix

Above: Natalie Tathem speaking to media. Credit: Perth Glory.

By Ella McShane (4/2/26).

Perth Glory take on Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand this coming Friday in the infamous ‘Distance Derby’ for round 16 of the A-League. Over five thousand kilometres seperate the two sides geographically, but only four points seperate them on the league table, despite currently being placed second and eighth on the table. 

Head Coach Stephen Peters and defender Natalie Tathem predict a high intensity match-up with the leagues leading goal scorers. 

“We have to be on our guard, we have to be ready to fight. They’re a very physically imposing team.” 

“If you’re wanting to be making finals and competing in this competition, it’s the kind of game you’ve got to be ready for.”

“I think they’ve completely changed since that game to be honest,” Peters said. “I think the introduction of the new strikers has obviously given them a different profile.”

With global football’s longest distance to separate the two teams, fatigue and player loading is also to be considered when going into this round.

Above: Stephen Peters speaking to the media. Credit: Perth Glory.

“We need to make sure that we are in a good space, that we are fresh enough, energetic enough to take the game on. Every decision we are making about away games is making sure that we give the players every opportunity to be the best versions of themselves,” said Peters.

Tathem echoed Peters sentiments from a player’s perspective whilst also highlighting how the extra day provides a chance for players to recover and improve cohesion.

“One of the biggest things we wanted to improve on last year was our away record. Our club, our staff have done a lot of work in the background to see how they can make those away trips better for us.”

“Going a day earlier will make a big difference,” said Tathem.

Looking to the injury bench, Tijan McKenna will be in contention for this week’s squad, whilst Georgia Cassidy is unlikely to make a return this week. 

Round 16 of the A-League kicks off at Sky Stadium at 4:00pm local time, with the match streaming free on 10+ and available to Paramount+ subscribers.

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Hayashi brace seals Brisbane’s win over Sydney FC

Sydney FC 1-3 Brisbane Roar

By Kieran Yap 5/2/26

Above: Brisbane Roar’s goal scorers Daisy Brown and Momo Hayashi. Photo: Brisbane Roar

A Momo Hayashi wondergoal sealed a 3-1 win for Brisbane Roar against Sydney FC at Leichhardt Oval. Daisy Brown scored the opener for The Roar before a brilliant equalizer from Hana Lowry for the home side. Hayashi’s brace was all that separated the sides in an entertaining, attacking game.

Brisbane Roar travelled south in strong form. Alex Smith’s side has suffered significant injuries to star players, but have continued to collect the points. They arrived to face Sydney FC as a side undefeated in six games.

The home side’s fortunes were in stark contrast. Sydney FC have only two wins this season, both coming back in November, and James Slaveski was looking for a third in his first game as interim manager.

Sydney were without Sarah Hunter. The captain was unavaiable due to a broken collarbone. Mackenzie Hawkesby partnered Lowry in midfield, while Amber Luchtmiejer started as the central attacker.

Brisbane started the game in better fashion. Aimee Medwin almost opened the scoring with a long range effort, but her shot whizzed wide of the far post.

The visitors did not have to wait long for to break the deadlock. Bente Jansen caused a turnover by pressuring Willa Pearson, and her skilfull cutback found Brown who calmly slotted the ball home.

Brisbane continued to apply pressure and move the ball quickly as they searched for a second, but Sydney still looked dangerous on occasion despite generally being outplayed. Riley Tanner had a goal cancelled for being offside and Lowry’s first in sky blue levelled the scores.

The midfielder received the ball in midfield. her first touch took her beyond the oncoming defender and she slalomed beyond a second before unleashing an excellent strike from the edge of the 18 yard box.

Lowry has been so often deployed in a deep, almost defensive or ball-retaining role that it can be easy to forget how deadly she can be around goal. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come for Sydney FC.

Brisbane tried to hit back almost immediately. Ashlyn Miller tested Heather Hinz, but the in-form Sydney FC goalkeeper was equal to the strike.

Sydney would have probably felt good going into the last minute of the first half. They had worn the attacking storm and levelled the scores. But Hayashi met an excellent corner kick to re-take the lead with the final touch of the half. Brisbane had the advantage at the break.

Despite that setback, Sydney looked more comfortable in the second half. The game was more even, but also more open as the home side chased the lead and Brisbane looked to extend theirs.

The important third goal arrived in stunning style. Hayashi is known for scoring long range rockets, but even by her standards this was incredible. she struck the ball from more than 30 yards out, low and directly into the bottom corner to effectively seal the game. Even the league’s best goalkeeper, at full stretch, could do nothing to stop it.

Sydney FC did not get the “new manager bounce” many fans would have hoped for, but there were positive signs. Hawkesby’s return to midfield gave the side more drive and attacking purpose through the centre of the park. Lowry’s more advanced role, paid immediate dividends and Bianca Galic added drive off the bench.

They should be able to build off that, but they face another in-form finals bound side next week in Canberra United.

Brisbane can chase first place on the table when they face Melbourne City in another away trip, but with City losing against Western Sydney Wanderers, Alex Smith’s side will feel anything is possible.

Teams: SYDNEY FC (4-3-3): Hinz, Tumeth, Ayson, Pearson, Fenton, Hawkesby, Lowry, Cassar, Lemon, Luchtmeijer, Tanner. Substitutes: Robertson, Ulkekul, Halmarick, Tallon-Henniker, Galic.

Goals: Lowry 35′

BRISBANE ROAR (4-3-3): Lincoln, Medwin, Seidl, Piazza, Studer, Hayashi, Woods, Miller, Meyers, Jansen, Brown. Substitutes: Franco, Stephenson, Cuthbert, Kinsella, Hoyos, Hanson.

Goals: Brown 10′, Hayashi 45′, 74′

Referee: Molly Godsell

Attendance: TBC

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Arsenal: European to World Champions, how they did it.

By Emme Fortnam (4/2/26)

Above: Arsenal lifting the first Champions Cup Photo: Arsenal FC

In the 24/25 season, Arsenal fought their way to the top of the women’s football, securing a UEFA Women’s Champions League title on the 24th May 2025. With Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey combining for 14 goals, Arsenal’s key players had a profound impact on the competition – shining in those crucial knockout moments that defined the European run.

In the Champions league, they soared to the quarter-finals with limited knockbacks. In the quarter and semi finals, Arsenal found themselves trailing in the first leg – to Real Madrid and OL Lyonnes respectively. Two second-leg comebacks saw them through to the final against the imperious Barcelona, setting up one of the most anticipated finals in history. The game started quietly, as Arsenal’s midfield disrupted that historic Barca three. As is often the case for Arsenal, it was Stina Blackstenius the substitute hero who scored to give Arsenal the win. Claiming victory for the just the second time in the competition.

Now, in 2026, Arsenal entered the new Champions Cup, a mini club ‘world cup’ with winners of the four Champions Leagues playing each other. They started by knocking out AS Far (Morocco) while Corinthians (Brazil) stunned American champions Gotham to set up a tie at Arsenal’s home ground for the final. While the Brazilian champions may lack the pure talent of Arsenal, they’re a strong defensive and tactically astute side, and this would be no walkover. Olivia Smith got the scoring started after Russo’s effort was saved, before the game was equalised by Gabi Zanotti. Lotte Wubbon Moy, who has enjoyed limited minutes in the league, rose above the rest, heading home to restore her team’s lead.

In injury time however, the drama continued as Katie McCabe’s foul in the box allowed the Brazillians to level. Extra time saw Caitlin Foord smash home the goal which finally dealt the final blow to Corinthians, seeing Arsenal over the line. In front of 25,000 fans, whatever you say about the competition, Arsenal are officially World Champions.

Sitting fourth in the table, Renee Sleger’s team haven’t had a great domestic season so far. Still, that winning mentality comes through. With injury returns incoming for some crucial players like Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, and key goalkeeper Daphne van-Domselaar, Arsenal will still be hoping to get more out of this season, and the confidence from Champions Cup success can only push this team on more and more.

Wanderers extend winning streak and cause upset in win against City

Melbourne City 0-1 Western Sydney Wanderers

Alice de Koster-Kitto 4/2/2026

Above: The Wanderers celebrate their goal against Melbourne City. Photo: Western Sydney Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers have caused upset at ctrl:Cyber pitch this evening, defeating Melbourne City 1-0. While the two sides sat completely opposite ends of the ladder, with City at the top and Wanderers at the bottom, it was the visitors who entered the pitch in better form, coming off a historic Sydney Derby win. It may have been an own goal that awarded the Wanderers the first and only goal of the match, but their ability to hold off the defending premiers was commendable.

Melbourne City presented immediate danger, with an early effort from Shelby McMahon inside the box. The match was a first against last on the table battle, although the two sides were fairly even within the first few minutes of play.

Malena Mieres punched away a Talia Younis shot, which served as the first chance for the Wanderers. Younis quickly followed up with another effort from outside the box, which was collected by Mieres.

Despite the table context, Wanderers did well in holding off City and creating chances, while only holding 30% of the possession. While Melbourne City held onto the ball, they weren’t able to capitalise on it early on.

Aideen Keane played the ball to Uchendu, who then took the shot towards goal. The ball was sent away, and Uchendu argued that it may have been a handball, although it wasn’t called.

While City continued to hold possession throughout the first half, and appeared the more dominant side across most areas, it seemed that if a goal was to come, it would be from the Wanderers, as Younis was able to make continual attempts.

Ella Buchanan broke into space before being blocked by Turner, as the game seemed to be moving in favour of the visitors.

Melbourne City were awarded a free kick, taken by Alexia Apostolakis, after a collision between Keane and Buchanan. The ball was well defended, as City were still not able to find an opportunity to take a shot.

The scoreline was opened for Western Sydney Wanderers in the 35th  minute. Despite their efforts, it was an own goal that earned them the lead, when a Talia Younis corner deflected off of Aideen Keane, who sent the ball over the line.

As halftime approached, City looked desperately for an equaliser, as Bryleeh Henry sent the ball to Uchendu inside the box, but the effort could not be converted into a real chance.

Western Sydney held onto the lead expertly as no second goal was to be found at the halftime whistle.

Melbourne City made two halftime substitutions in an effort to find an equaliser, with golden boot race leader Holly Mcnamara comin gon in place of Keane, and Leticia McKenna for Shelby McMahon.

Rebekah Stott made an excellent shot from distance, which rippled off the outside of the net, and looked for a moment as if it might have gone in.

An excellent Apostolakis corner was punched away from goal by Khamis. Khamis made another impressive save shortly after, following a Turner corner.

The speed of Holly McNamara got the ball into a dangerous area, despite efforts from Poppie Hooks, who attempted to hold her off. McNamaras cross could not find a blue shirt in time. The effort, however, exposed disorganisation in the Wanderers defence, as a City equaliser seemed increasingly likely.

City managed to capitalise on their possession, more so than in the first half; however, they continued to be blocked by Wanderers defence. A free kick from McKenna looked to find a goal for City, but the ball was sent too high, dropping into the hands of Khamis.

Karly Rostebakken got dangerously close to a late equaliser for City after Khamis missed a long ball. It was ultimately too high, and the goal was not to be found.

After 6 minutes of added time, neither side was able to find the back of the net, and the Wanderers took home the 3 points.

As stoppage time approached, it seemed that the score would remain the same, as Wanderers didn’t manage to make any significant forward efforts, but still managed to hold off City

The win marks Western Sydney Wanderers’ 3rd in a row, and has lifted them off the bottom of the table. For City, it marks their 2nd consecutive loss, after being defeated by Adelaide United last round.

Both Wanderers and City will host their upcoming matches this Sunday, with Western Sydney taking on Adelaide United at CommBank Stadium, as Melbourne City head back to ctrl:cyber Pitch, to face Brisbane Roar.

MELBOURNE CITY (4-4-2): Mieres, Roestbakken, Otto, Stott, Turner, McMahon, Apostolakis, Jackson, Henry, Keane, Uchendu. Substitutes: Karic, Jugovic, Barbieri, Wilson, McNamara, McKenns

WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS (3-4-3): Khamis, Ying, Harrison, Hooks, Matos, Harada, Chessari, Buchanan, Ng-Saad, Cong, Younis. Substitutes: Fazzari, Rue, Cerne, Edwards, Barker, Bennett

Goals: Aideen Keane (OG) 35’

Referee: Caitlin Williams

Attendance: TBC

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Ante Juric departs Sydney FC as most successful coach ever

Above: Ante Juric lifts the championship. Image: Sydney FC.

By Genevieve Henry (4/2/26).

Three premierships. Three championships. Seven consecutive grand finals. Ante Juric achieved all of this as the longest serving head coach in eight and a half seasons with Sydney FC.

Now at the bottom of the table and suffering their first Sydney Derby defeat in 6 years, the Sky Blues have lost all hope of recreating this glory. Western Sydney Wanderers were the only team below Sydney on the A-League Women ladder. This 3-2 defeat was the last straw for the club, who announced Juric’s departure yesterday. Academy Technical Lead and NPL Assistant coach James Slaveski will step up as interim head coach.

Many fans of Sydney and the A-Leagues would have assumed the lacklustre 2024-25 season was an outlier for Sydney — although they nearly managed to climb back up — but no one expected Juric’s side to be on the bottom again this season.

Juric built a legacy of winning at Sydney. In the rare years Juric was in charge where the Sky Blues didn’t come away with a trophy, they were still competing at the top. Now, they’re in a battle to crawl up from the bottom. The only thing Sydney can currently be grateful for is the lack of relegation in the A-Leagues.

Perhaps it’s a plague of injuries that has done the Sky Blues in; perhaps it’s waves of departing players — but these losses are commonplace in the world of football. More than likely, Juric has been doing the same thing for a long time and whether the rest of the league is catching up to him or he’s stuck in a rut, something had to change for Sydney to maintain their status as a top club.

Above: Juric watches the Sky Blues from the sideline. Image: A-Leagues.

Although fans, players, and the club will be sad to see Juric go, it’s not with shame that he departs.

“Ante will forever be remembered as one of the most important figures in Sydney FC’s history,” Sydney FC Executive Vice Chairman Sebastian Gray said. “On behalf of the board, we want to sincerely thank him for everything he has given to this club over eight and a half seasons, including an incredible run of success that delivered six major trophies and seven straight Grand Finals.”

The impact of Juric goes beyond his titles — he has had a hand in developing many of the most prominent players in Australian football. Cailtin Foord, Alanna Kennedy, Amy Sayer, Cortnee Vine, Remy Siemsen, Charlize Rule, Clare Wheeler, Kahli Johnson, and Jada Whyman are regulars in current Matildas squads, and that’s barely scratching the surface of the big names Juric has worked with.

Juric is famous for his success in developing young players into superstars. He and Sydney have often had an eye for who the next big name is — his 2025-26 squad is stacked with young talents with Indiana Dos Santos (18), Willa Pearson (15), Maddie Caspers (18), Rubi Sullivan (17), Claire Corbett (15), and Skye Halmarick (17) to name a few. When Juric believes in a player, the footballing world often does, too.

Now, the cycle of development and departure that Juric mastered for so long seems to have come to an end at Sydney FC, stuck firmly in the development phase. Without big international signings or cohesion among their other big name players, the heavy lifting is falling on the shoulders of players with little experience. While in a few years, the current Sydney squad could achieve great things, they’re not there yet.

It was time for a change. But it certainly doesn’t erase all the success Juric had with the Sky Blues.

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Vrouwen Eredivisie Week 13: HERA stun Ajax, ADO still without win

By Jan-Kees Joosse (3/2/26)

Above: HERA United celebrate an unlikely win over Ajax. Photo: Vrouwen Eredivisie website.

The thirteenth round of the women’s Eredivisie saw title contenders slip up, unlikely wins and the bottom of the table getting tighter.

Ajax 1-2 HERA United

A city derby has emerged following Hera United’s win over Ajax. While everyone had expected an easy victory for Ajax, they were left disappointed when the final whistle blew. HERA widened the relegation gap with NAC Breda, and Ajax lost their top spot.

The Ajax women started strongly on Sunday afternoon, creating numerous chances in the first half-hour. It seemed only a matter of time before they took the lead, which came in the 39th minute when striker Danique Tolhoek headed Ajax ahead 1-0.

Just before halftime, HERA equalized after a cross from Lieke Vis was deflected off Jonna van de Velde. An own goal dealt Ajax a blow going into the break. Despite Ajax pressing after the interval, they were mainly unlucky against the efficiency of the visitors. In the 58th minute, goalkeeper Kelly Steen launched a counter with a brilliant kick, allowing substitute Ina Booms to calmly score the 1-2.

HERA’s win is impressive, especially because the city derby, according to Ajax coach Anouk Bruijl, had not yet fully resonated with the Ajax players. It was likely very different for HERA. They are becoming an increasingly strong team in the Eredivisie, not easily beaten – a positive sign for women’s football fans. The level is rising, and Ajax’s talents may have underestimated this. This could be a crucial moment in the title race, setting the stage for future rivalries in Amsterdam.

Ajax simply had no luck in this match. There is little to criticize about their play; the only area for improvement is finishing games with scrappy goals. Forcing outcomes is not yet familiar to the Amsterdam squad, a consequence of Ajax’s policy of developing youth in the Eredivisie. Whether this approach remains sustainable will largely become clear next season, when Ajax faces top teams more regularly.

Feyenoord 2-2 PSV

Undoubtedly favourites for this game, PSV took a 0-2 lead after twenty minutes, but Feyenoord fought back and scored the equalizer in the 98th minute. That there was even time for a comeback was remarkable.

PSV struck early in Rotterdam. Liz Rijsbergen showcased her pace, scoring after a quick counter, reminiscent of Kerolin’s 3-0 goal against Chelsea. PSV werethe more confident team in the first half. Lore Jacobs quickly finished a strong PSV attack, converting a precise cross from Liz Rijsbergen with class! With an early lead, it seemed like a walk in the park.

Feyenoord proved resilient and reduced the deficit before halftime through Esmee de Graaf, giving them hope for the rest of the match. This hope was largely thanks to the referee, who allowed six minutes of added time and continued play after short injury treatments. In the extra two minutes, Obispo finished a foul to make it 2-2.

Feyenoord celebrated the goal like a victory, though their weaknesses against top teams remain apparent. PSV was visibly frustrated in added time by the referee’s decisions and a dangerous cross from Itamura, handing away the three points. Captain Fleur Strik was furious and criticized the referee for letting the match get out of hand, allowing too many fouls and extending added time unnecessarily.

Twente 3-0 Excelsior

FC Twente beat Excelsior 3-0, having already defeated them earlier in the week in the cup. This victory moved Twente to the top of the table, overtaking Ajax with a game in hand. Excelsior, now in the relegation zone, is showing increasing uncertainty with each game.

From the first whistle, FC Twente took control. Excelsior were immediately put under pressure, struggling to play out from the Twente press. Early turnovers led to dangerous chances for the home side. In the 11th minute, the opener came from a well-taken corner by Charlotte Hulst, with Alieke Tuin reacting sharply to score 1-0.

The goal did not change the game’s dynamics. Excelsior remained insecure on the ball, continually allowing Twente to press quickly. This led to the second goal in the 19th minute, when Jaimy Ravensbergen capitalized on sloppy defending and calmly finished. Twente continued to dominate, and in first-half injury time, Lynn Groenewegen made it 3-0, giving the home side a comfortable lead at halftime.

Twente saw out the match professionally, securing the win without problems. Combined with other results, Corina Dekker’s side climbs to the top of the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. Excelsior, meanwhile, are left worrying about their troubling form and recurring uncertainty reminiscent of old patterns.

PEC Zwolle 2-0 AZ

This season, PEC Zwolle Women have shown how much a strong coach can influence results. Last year, the team underperformed, but under Gert Peter de Gunst, they have become one of the positive surprises of the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. With clear principles, confidence, and organization, PEC consistently win, even against teams around them in the standings.

PEC Zwolle deservedly beat AZ 2-0. After a balanced opening, the home side took the initiative. Britt Udink opened the scoring after 25 minutes with a fine goal. AZ had a late chance before halftime, but Sabrine Ellouzi’s goal was ruled offside. After the break, PEC scored again via Ragnheiður Jónsdóttir, effectively deciding the match.

With 27 points from 13 matches, PEC remains competitive in the upper mid-table, exceeding expectations. AZ, however, face serious challenges, sitting eighth with 12 points while HERA lurk with 11. The relegation battle is becoming increasingly prominent.

Heerenveen 4-1 ADO Den Haag

SC Heerenveen Women continue to impress in the Eurojackpot Women’s Eredivisie. Their 4-1 win over ADO Den Haag confirms the team is in excellent form. Where they previously conceded goals easily, luck is now consistently on their side. Their growing confidence is evident in their attacking play: decisive, brave, and self-assured, making their outlook notably positive.

Heerenveen started strong, taking the lead after just 12 minutes. A cross from the right was poorly handled by goalkeeper Barbara Lorsheyd, allowing Evi Maatman to tap in. Two minutes later, ADO equalized due to sloppy buildup, with Anne van Egmond scoring a beautiful lob. Heerenveen, however, stayed composed, pressing and going into halftime 2-1 ahead after a rebound finished by Lisanne Venema.

After the break, ADO sought an equalizer, but Jet van Mierlo’s goal was ruled offside. Heerenveen immediately countered; following a saved shot by Elfi Maass, Aymee Altena was alert to score on the rebound for 3-1. In the final stages, Heerenveen kept pressing, hitting the frame twice, and Romaissa Boukakar sealed the 4-1 victory in injury time.

ADO Den Haag’s problems are structural. The team performs like a relegation side, but the off-field situation is even more concerning. The women’s team seems low-priority within the club, which focuses on promoting the men’s team. Coaches without proper licenses, departing players, and lack of vision paint a worrying picture for a club that was once a founding pillar of the Women’s Eredivisie.

Utrecht 1-0 NAC Breda

FC Utrecht Women secured a professional 1-0 win over NAC Breda, but the victory barely masked the unrest within the team. Play looked strained, with defense and buildup poorly coordinated. The team lacked cohesion, visible in body language, and Lobke Loonen left the field frustrated – a symbol of a squad struggling with itself. The question arises: is it a lack of quality and experience, or poor preparation and coordination? Mistakes continue to repeat, worrying Utrecht fans.

After NAC’s painful loss to PEC Zwolle last week, FC Utrecht started strong. The home team pressed early, won many second balls, and kept NAC pinned in their own half. Yet this dominance yielded little real control. Loonen had the biggest chance, shooting with the outside of her foot after 25 minutes, only to be denied by goalkeeper Nikki de Haan.

Midway through the first half, NAC improved. Brigitte Franken had a big chance, and Stephanie Coelho Aurélio set up Emely van der Vliet before halftime, but without success. NAC continued pressing after the break, creating several good chances, including a set-piece straight at the goalkeeper. They lacked decisiveness.

In the 76th minute, the match was decided at the other end. After a sharp moment by Snellenberg, Nikita Tromp displayed her class, volleying a cross from the left into the net. A goal from nowhere, against the run of play. NAC continued to press but came away empty-handed again. The fight for survival continues, with Ajax the next obstacle.

Follow Jan for news about Dutch women’s football at  www.fcleeuwinnen.nl. 

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10 of the most exciting transfers of the NPLW Vic

By Kieran Yap 3/2/26

Above: New South Melbourne signing Bella Wallhead. Photo: Kou Media

The new Victorian NPLW season is only weeks away, and as usual there has been plenty of player movement. Impetus looks at some of the most exciting club-to club transfers of the 2026 pre-season.

Anais Josefski: Bulleen Lions to Alamein FC.

The rapid wide forward arrives after a season at Bulleen Lions. The talented former Melbourne Victory train-on player has pace to burn and is a good finisher, but found game time limited while sharing a position with Danella Butrus and Alana Cortellino at The Lions but still managed a solid return of three goals in 13 appearances.

Josefski’s best form in the NPLW Vic has come at Boroondara Eagles FC, where she started 21 out of a possible 22 games and scored an impressive 10 goals for the club, this followed her 2023 season at Box Hill where she enjoyed a similar ratio with six goals from 12 appearances.

Josefski should be a good fit for Alamein. Her pace makes her a threat and prevents defences from sitting too high when in possession. If she gets loose on a counter attack or in space on the wing, all the opposition can do is hope.

Asuka Miyata: Heidelberg Utd to Avondale FC.

You could kick a ball at a team photo of Avondale’s squad and any player you hit would qualify as a major player in this league. The newly promoted side clearly means business and have recruited strongly to support the big names already there like former Gold Medal winner Kurea Okino and Elise Kellond-Knight.

Avondale have coaxed Beattie Goad and World Cup goalscorer Hannah Wilkinson back onto the pitch, but have also added Isabel Accardo and Sidney Allen to the squad, along with Heidelberg’s set piece genius Cameron Barriero. This is essentially and all-star team on paper.

Included in that glittering roster is one of the most deadly midfielders of 2025. Japanese playmaker Asuka Miyata. After lifting two trophies at Heidelberg, Miyata has been snared by the ambitious newcomers.

After two highly impactful season’s Miyata should hit the ground running and  can be the chief creative force to supply Avondale’s enviable attack.

She is a crafty, tricky midfielder who can move from box to box and drive the play forward. Miyata is the type of midfielder who is brilliantly skilled as an individual but also improves those around her. Expect her to play another key role in 2026.

Alyssa Dall ‘Oste: Perth Glory to Bulleen Lions.

One of the states finest goalkeepers has arrived at the Veneto Club as Bulleen look to go at least one step further this season.

Bulleen have made strong signings around the park. Olivia Bomford has joined from South Melbourne and Maja Markovski has returned to the club where she won a Gold Medal and earned an A-League Women move, Dall Oste brings top level experience between the sticks and gives Bulleen some serious depth in the goalkeeping department.

Bulleen now have Emily Shields, Erin Hudson and Dalle ‘Oste to choose from and the injury crisis that challenged them last season should be avoided. Dall ‘Oste joins after a short spell at Perth Glory and two seasons with Western United in the A-League Women. She has lifted NPLW trophies with Calder United and has the talent and experience to lift another at Bulleen.

Bella Sewards: South Melbourne to Essendon Royals

Unlike some clubs, Essendon have not had to deal with huge upheaval in their playing ranks. Key players like Sasha Coorey and Alessia Bresciano have remained, and fans will hope that Ava Groba is fully fit and back to her best.

The Royals have come close to success in the last two seasons with consecutive semi final appearances, and in signing Bella Sewards they clearly aim to maintain that run or improve on it.

Sewards arrives from South Melbourne and will effectively replace Grace Maher in the lineup. A long time star of this competition, Sewards provides an experienced presence in the middle of the park, who can also spark her team in the attacking third.

A creative and technical midfielder with the ability to score spectacular goals, Bella Sewards can improve this Essendon team. She is a quality signing for a club that is becoming accustomed to competing for honours.

Hayley Geurts: Boroondara Eagles to Heidelberg United.

The 2025 premiers have lost some players this season, but in Hayley Geurts thy have signed a versatile, experienced match winner. The former Boroondara star will likely be one of the most impactful arrivals at the Olympic Village, in a year that looks transitional on first appearance.

Geurts is an ambidextrous full back or midfielder who can take set pieces with either foot. Her ability to score from free kicks should offset the departure of Barreiro and she can provide the Warriors with valuable leadership following the retirement of icon Steph Galea.

It sounds like a lot to ask of a new arrival, but Geurts has the ability and on field temperament to do it. On top of that, she is a terrifically consistent and entertaining player. A genuine star of this league and one that will add to Heidelberg’s NPLW highlight reel.

Georgia Karaparidis: Box Hill United Melbourne City

Melbourne City’s first NPLW side is stacked with talent. Former South Melbourne goalkeeper and Junior Matilda Dali Gorr-Burchmore, Heidelberg premiership winner Caitlin Karic and Bulleen prodigy Mary Brown have all been snared by the potential new powerhouse.

They can also boast the likes of Kaya Jugovic, Danella Butrus and Bryleeh Henry, although the A-League season may impact their availability in the NPLW.

They have also signed one of the stars in Box Hill’s grand final winning campaign. Georgia Karaparidis is a tricky, entertaining and dynamic forward who can twist defenders into knots and finish off chances. While the eventual surge to silverware was largely propelled by their experienced players, Karaparidis was one of those keeping the club in contention before the big names arrived mid season in 2025 and she firmly established herself as a star.

A player good enough to change games, and one with the maturity to handle that responsibility, Karaparidis is still very much at the beginning of her career and has plenty of improvement left in her game, but was one to watch last season and is likely to star again in 2026.

Yuka Sato: Bulleen Lions to Bentleigh Greens

Bentleigh Greens have a strong squad coming into this season. Julia Budiongo will provde a target and goal threat and Candela Ferreyra-Bas can be a creative spark. In recruiting Yuka Sato from Bulleen Lions, they have player who can control a game.

The Japanese midfielder is fast, technical and can move the ball between the lines. She is capable of chipping in with a goal, but her real strengths are in creating chances for her teammates.

There are players who can score at Bentleigh, Sato is the perfect signing to provide them with chances.

Emily Rutkowski: FV Academy to Melbourne Victory.

Rutkowski was one of the standout players in the second half of the 2025 season, the versatile fullback arrived back at FV Academy after a time with Victory as a train-on player and it was a surprise to some that she did not return to the A-League setup immediately for the current season.

She’s back now, and one of the stand out signings for the club’s inaugural Under 23 program.

Rutkowski can play on either flank at either fullback or on the wing and can score spectacular goals. Victory have a side stacked with the competition’s best young talent and will likely be one of the leagues most entertaining teams, Rutkowski is likely to play a big part in that style. Reunited with her FV Acamedy coach Santi Escudero, she is likely to enjoy the same trust and freedom to play her natural game.

Looking at Victory as a development squad, Rutkowski’s season should be followed keenly by fans of the A-League. The senior team has struggled to consistently fill the right back position, and Rutkowski could be a long term solution.

For now though, just enjoy the show.  

Dragana Kljajic: South Melbourne to Preston Lions

Dragana Kljajic has swapped Lakside for B.T Connor Reserve in a huge coup for The Lions.

The former South Melbourne winger is a crucial addition to a side still boasting Ellie La Monte in attack and help create or convert chances at her new home

Kljajic is an entertaining and direct forward, who started last season strongly at South. She is an excellent cross of the ball, but Preston might want to get her into the box more and use her movement and ability to get on the end of the chances La Monte routinely creates.

This is a smart piece of business by a club looking to return to trophy contention, Kljajic is a proven player in the NPLW, should adjust quickly to her new team and is sure to make an impact.

Isabella Wallhead: South Melbourne

South Melbourne secured on of the biggest moves of this off season when they signed Western Australian talent Bella Wallhead from rivals Heidelberg United.

Wallhead is one of the league’s finest central defenders, was a standout performer for Heidelberg last season and most observers were in shock that she was not signed to an A-League Women club in 2026.

This is all to South Melbourne’s gain. Wallhead will make South much harder to score against, and can help them build from the back. She will also be reunited with former Bergers teammates Danielle Micalleff, although the two play at opposite ends of the pitch.

This is a huge signing. Wallhead is a highly consistent, prodigiously talented, modern defender who dominates games from the back.

South have simply signed one of the best players in the NPLW.

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Pia Vlok: Phoenix’s teen sensation makes history (again)

by Maddison Hagger (2/2/26)

Above: Pia Vlok (yellow and black kit) in action for Wellington Phoenix. Photo: Ryan Imray for Impetus.

Wellington Phoenix’s teen sensation Pia Vlok played a stunning game against the Newcastle Jets on Sunday, becoming the second youngest player to score a hat-trick in the A-League.

The Nix dismantled the Jets in the first 25 minutes, going on to win 5-1 and maintaining their second place spot on the ladder. 

Vlok’s first goal came just 10 minutes into the match after working with Makala Woods to sustain pressure on the Jets’ debutant keeper Georgia Ritchie. Newcastle attempted to play out from the back, but the Phoenix turned the ball over and Grace Jale found Vlok unopposed at the top of the box. With incredible composure under pressure from the Jets’ defenders bearing down, Vlok intelligently took a touch to the right and found space to take the shot into the bottom left corner. 

That strike set the tone for the game, with Vlok’s second goal coming just five minutes later. Woods found her on the right and the 17-year-old drove forward to the top of the box taking a low shot across goal into the back of the net. 

It’s clear the Phoenix have a rising star in their midst. The teenager joined the Wellington club in September following success with domestic league side Auckland United. Prior to that, Vlok was named the best player at the 2024 OFC U-16 Women’s Championship before going on to represent New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic. 

Vlok made her debut for the Phoenix as a substitute against Canberra United in their season opening game. She impressed head coach Bev Priestman so much that she earned a starting spot against the Newcastle Jets just a week later. 

The midfielder also provided a bright spark in the club’s previous outing against the Jets, registering her first assist just four minutes into the clash. Her link up with forward Brooke Nunn produced results when Vlok slipped the ball in behind the Jets’ defence for Nunn to squeeze a shot past the keeper. She continued to combine well with Nunn in the second-half, sending a second defence-splitting ball through to the forward. 

Vlok plays with the confidence of a young talent, bringing drive and determination. She doesn’t hesitate to take shots, registering one in just the third minute moments before providing the assist against the Jets in their first outing this season. Again, in the second half, it took less than 60 seconds for the attacker to register the first shot. 

With the Phoenix facing multiple injuries to experienced players, younger members have been given the opportunity to step up to the mantle. Vlok has taken that chance head on, making history as the Phoenix’s youngest ever goal scorer. That same goal was the winner in the club’s first ever success against Melbourne Victory.

In Round 13 against Canberra United, Priestman turned to her bench for energy and vigour, bringing on Vlok and Daisy Brazendale. Vlok sealed the win with confidence in the sixth minute of added time by launching an adventurous shot 25-yards out from goal to best keeper Sally James who was back-tracking to her line. 

Priestman says she is encouraging this confidence in Vlok and the Phoenix players to go for goal:

“I think we’ve stopped looking for the perfect goal or the perfect pass and I’ve challenged the group now for this back-end of the season about being brave.”

Above: Pia Vlok (facing camera, embraced by Brooke Nunn) celebrates her hat-trick against Newcastle Jets on Sunday. Photo: A-Leagues.

With her ability to link the midfield to strikers and her talented passes in behind defensive lines, Vlok looks like a natural 10. She combines well with forwards like Nunn, and against the Jets, played multiple slicing passes straight through the midfield. But this season she has been flexible in position, playing as a 10, a wingback, and sometimes a nine. Priestman says this fluidity is a key part of the team’s style of play:

“When you recruit good footballers with good football IQ, you can move them around […] having players that can play in different positions makes a massive difference […] It’s a big part of what we do.”

However, Vlok’s ground control outweighs her aerial duels. With a success rate around 37.5%, her heading and aerial positioning are areas for development, despite her height. And with the Jets’ defenders strong in the air, the Phoenix looked to play the ball to her feet rather than competing for headers. 

Against the Jets on Sunday, the young talent sealed the Phoenix’s three game win streak in the 64th minute and made history as the club’s first ever player to score a hat-trick. A ball through midfield from Woods at the halfway line found Vlok who got behind the defensive line and drove forward to the top of the box. Jets’ keeper Ritchie came forward to cut down the angle but Vlok intelligently chopped onto her left foot and made no mistake, slamming the ball past the keeper to find her third goal. 

Ultimately the Jets’ defensive line were unable to handle a relentless Phoenix who put immense pressure on the young keeper and were given space and opportunity in dangerous areas. They were also unable to handle Vlok’s aggression, urgency, and footballing smarts. 

With history made, the talented teenager was substituted off in the 72nd minute. She now stands as the Phoenix’s top goal scorer this season and sixth in the league’s golden boot race. 

As the season continues into the back-end, Vlok must continue to prove herself as a core player in the squad by showing her intelligence and confidence. Under a coach like Priestman who is known for and passionate about developing young players, the teen is in the right place. 

 “This club is big on promoting young players and if they’re good enough they’re old enough and I’m delighted for them to go and deliver.”

There is a very high likelihood, as the Phoenix’s most in-form young player, that we could see Vlok stepping up into the Football Ferns, following the likes of Milly Clegg and other young Phoenix talents. 

“She’s great technically and she’s athletic. I think New Zealand have a great player on their hands for the future. I think she’s Football Ferns material.”

Could this call-up come as soon as the Ferns’ FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania qualifiers at the end of February? And how long until she starts piquing interest from leagues overseas? Watch this space.

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