Exclusive Interview with new Dijon FCO Head Coach Pierre-Alain Picard

Above: Pierre-Alain Picard (right) with some of his staff. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

by Jean-Pierre Thiesset (8/19/25).

Pierre-Alain Picard, 34 years old, was appointed DFCO Women coach on July 1st, 2025, to replace Sébastien Joseph whose assistant he was last season.

Above: Pierre-Alain PICARD, DFCO coach. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

Pierre-Alain Picard joined DFCO in 2017 as U14 boys coach and then becomes already women D1 team assistant coach in 2019. In 2022 he takes charge of the women’s training centre (one of the only five women’s training centre in France) and is appointed women U19 coach with very good results.

After having finished 4th of Arkema Première Ligue in an exceptional season in 2024-2025, some departures of key players, arrivals of young players and a change of head coach, Dijon is calmly preparing for the new 2025-2026 season.

Among departures, several key players including Léna Goetsch, who was also the team captain and Océane Picard. Among arrivals, Colette Ndzana (defender), Dominica Kopinska (forward), Emmi Siren (defender), Olivia Dowin (midfielder) and Aïrine Fontaine (forward). Among players who continue the adventure, Katriina Talaslahti (goalkeeper), Nadia Krezyman (midfielder), Meriame Terchoun (midfielder), Lina Gay (midfielder), Noémie Carage (defender), Chengshu Wu (forward), Yanwen Wang (forward) and Léa Declercq (midfielder).

Above: Noémie CARAGE, DFCO. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

On August 14, before the interview of Pierre-Alain Picard, I attended the training session which was advanced at 9 AM to limit the impact of the high temperatures. Even though it was 25 degrees at 9 AM and 30 degrees at the end of the session at 10:30 AM, this training session was not easy for the players. After a muscle warm-up, some very interesting and very intelligent specific sessions combining physical and tactical training made the players suffer a little. Before the start of the training session, Pierre-Alain Picard explained one of the objectives of the today’s sessions for the players was to carry out exercises allowing them to consider a 4-1-4-1 composition during matches. A session of corner kicks and free kicks ended the training session in which the main objective was to have goalkeepers work with their defenders, some of whom are new.

Above: Colette NDZANA (left) Meriame TERCHOUN (right), DFCO. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

Meriame Terchoun, the Swiss member of the group, told me at the end of training session that these were good sessions, necessary but tiring, especially that with the high temperatures, the players had difficulty sleeping properly and therefore recovering well at night.

Interview with Pierre-Alain Picard:

Jean-Pierre Thiesset: How does it feel to finally be the head coach this season?

Pierre-Alain Picard: No, not finally, It’s something that has been prepared, at club level and for me it has also been prepared individually through various training sessions, and then of course it is quite dizzying at the start because it’s completely different.

JPT: Coming back after being assistant coach and taking over the same team must help a little, even if there have been several changes of players?

PAP: Yes, there are more parameters, not that we control, but that we know; whether it is the players, the championship, the history of the club and the history of the team, it is very important, and it allows us to have, let’s say, a little help at the start because everything doesn’t change.

Above: Pierre-Alain PICARD with Chengshu WU, DFCO. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

And indeed there have been a lot of player movements; so after a good season, it’s normal, today I also think that it is Dijon’s ranking that wants that, we are the springboard to other clubs or even other championships, hoping that one day it will be the opposite, but you have to be patient and humble for that. But it is normal that there are a lot of changes, there are players who discover new championships or who join the top 3 in France, that is good, it shows that we did good work.

Above: Aïrine FONTAINE, DFCO. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

I think we have lost some experienced players, especially compared to our league, but we have some real players with potential who have arrived. Now it is going to take a little time between integration and discovering the league, but we have new players with enormous qualities: Emmi Siren, Finnish, right defender, Olivia Dowin, Polish, left midfielder, and Aïrine Fontaine, forward, who really struggled to confirm because she lacked consistency and playing regularly but she is still a very young player. That is why I think we have lost experience and maturity but that despite everything we have recovered young players who know international teams and who already seem to show a certain maturity, but we will see if that is confirmed during matches when we are behind or when we are going to lead and in the management of match time.

JPT: For her second year, when we see Nadia Krezyman, who is only 21 years old, who “grumbles” when she does not succeed at something, does that demonstrate a great desire to do well?

PAP: Yes, that is good, it is the advantage of youth where there is this little carelessness of trying at the start and it is his attitude behind it which is very positive.

Above: Nadia KREZYMAN, DFCO. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset, Impetus.

JPT: I think the team’s strong point last season was partly its cohesion, won’t the changes risk disrupting that?

PAP: We obviously started from scratch a little bit, then we also focused a lot of the preparation on the moments of living together to recreate that. After last season we had players of great talent anyway, so, yes, the cohesion, but in the matches where we were badly led it was the talent that made us win the matches and that also made us exist in the matches against the top 6 teams. Here we are recreating something, we are starting a new cycle with new players.

JPT: Is the goal this season to do as well as last season?

PAP: Today there is no real ranking objective. The club’s objective in the very short term is to establish itself in the top 6; if we can already be regularly in the top 6 that will be good. The objective is also to develop what we do in the game because despite everything we remain a team and a club that played rather low with a lot of transitions, the idea is to be a little more active and to dictate the balance of power a little. To be active instead of being reactive. To be less in adaptation in relation to the opponent.

The objectives, really, they are there, after, a successful season will necessarily be a top 6. And after I think that it is a bit like last season where we had built a little match by match, and at one point we said to ourselves but it’s possible in fact, we’ll see how it goes. It also avoids putting additional pressure on us.

I would like to thank the Dijon staff for their welcome during the training session, Rosemary Durand for organizing the day and Pierre-Alain Picard for his availability and for answering all my questions without avoiding anything.

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Heyman and Jagarinec: Women’s Football needs Canberra United

by Alice de Koster-Kitto (19/8/25).

Above: Canberra United’s Matildas star Michelle Heyman speaking to the media yesterday. Image: Canberra United

Australian footballing giant Michelle Heyman has re-signed with Canberra United, along with head coach Antoni Jagarinec, ahead of the 2025/26 A-League season. The re-signing marks Jagarinec’s second season in green, while Heyman will lead the line in her 15th overall year with the club.

“We’re all just grateful that there’s still football here in Canberra, ” Heyman said, reacting to her re-signing and the club’s future in the A-League.

Yesterday’s announcement will be the first of many from the capital city club, following the announcement that United will continue in the competition through the 2025/26 season, under the funding of Capital Football and the ACT government.

Head coach Antoni Jagarinec can ensure that the rest of the squad is locked in “immminently”, as the club heads into pre-season training. The Canberra boss reflected on the significance of keeping his hometown club in the league, stating, “We have such a rich history in the league;  we’re the nation’s capital. We belong here.”

“The whole off-season was about the girls and making sure that they had a quality club to play for again,” Jagarinec added.

Although it may only be his second season as head coach, Jagarinec has built a unique trust with his players, which provided them the confidence to remain loyal and wanting to return, despite doubts about the club’s future, with Heyman feeling “honoured to always work with him. He understands me as a player, but he understands me more as a person, so he understands how to get the best out of me.”

Above: Canberra United coach Antoni Jagarinec speaking yesterday. Image: Canberra United.

“There are always opportunities everywhere. I am a loyal player. Canberra has given me so much in my career, and all I want to do is be able to give that back. To have a Matilda playing in this league, to inspire the next generation of kids, that’s important to me,” added the striker,  “I want to make sure Canberra is recognised as the incredible club it was back in the day, ” she continued.

While Canberra United have been on a “rollercoaster” as a club over the years, it is the loyalty of the players, including Matildas and A-League legend Heyman, that has kept the hopes of the club’s success alive throughout these periods of uncertainty.

“There were heaps of scouts trying to pull our players away, and opposition clubs, which is a credit to the players and a credit to what we did as a club last year, because there was success there, ” Jagarinec pointed out.

The 2024/25 season saw great success for the club, as the squad earned the opportunity to play finals football for the first time in four years, before being knocked out by Central Coast Mariners in the quarter finals.

“There was success there, albeit not first place, but there was success, ” says Jagerenic on Canberra’s previous season

Although they got painstakingly close to the victory they once knew, Canberra United are confident that with the strength and belief within the squad,  they can reclaim their title of team to beat in this upcoming season, with Heyman assuring, “No matter what, if you can get together a good squad and can perform, then we can win this league.”

 When asked her hopes for the upcoming season, Heyman put it simply as, “To win.”

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Irish young star chooses Foxes Den to call home

Above: new Leicester City signing Heather Payne, the newest signing at the Foxes. Image: via Leicester City FC

By Alyce Collett (18/8/25)

The Irish influx into Leicester City ahead of the 2025/26 Women’s Super League (WSL) season has continued, with Heather Payne becoming the latest player to sign for the club.

The 25 year old moves to Leicester from Everton, where she spent two years after a four year college career with Florida State University.

Season 2024/25 was a tough one for Payne with some injury issues plaguing her campaign, but once fully fit and at her best she is an exciting prospect.

As she has shown on a number of occasions at international level – winning over 50 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland – she can provide a strong running presence from the right back position, helping to work the ball up into really dangerous positions in attack.

Speaking to Leicester City’s socials about signing for the club, Payne said “This is a place where I can develop, and I’ve heard really good things about the team itself and the staff.

“Belvoir Drive is an outstanding facility and that’s an added bonus having access to everything you need as a player. It looks really good and I’m excited to get to work there.”

After a bit of a slow start to the summer signing window, Leicester City are starting to pick up the pace a bit when it comes to their signings ahead of the new season.

Payne is the third signing the Foxes’ third signing of the summer signing window, joining fellow Irishwoman Katie Keane and American Celeste Boureille, who were both announced earlier this month.

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Lisa Rodgers’ last second heroics help Celtic to winning start over Hearts

Heart of Midlothian 1-2 Celtic

By Gethin Thurlow (17/8/25)

Above: Celtic celebrate scoring against Partick Thistle in 2023 Photo: celticfc.com

Goalkeeper Lisa Rodgers made some inspired late saves to see Celtic past Hearts as they got off to a winning start in the SWPL and eased pressure on manager Elena Sadiku

Right from the start, Hearts asserted their possession-based style of play on the game. Passing out from the back and controlling the pace, the hosts focused their attacks down the right, targeting Celtic left back Lisa Robertson who was out of her usual midfield position. 

Celtic were happy to let Hearts have the ball in this way, and in fact were set up to counter this. Without a traditional striker in the lineup, the Ghirls focused on trying to overload their opponents’ back three with pace and by catching the team out of structure. To do this, they employed an effective high press and passed directly up to the attackers rather than building attacks through sustained possession. This began to work well for Celtic and they created a number of early chances.

Just after the 20 minute mark, Amy Gallacher picked up the ball and perfectly played in winger Morgan Cross, who took one touch before slashing the ball past Johnstone in the Hearts net and Celtic’s season was under way.

During a perfectly timed drinks break, Hearts boss Eva Olid addressed those early issues, switching to a back four to try and limit Celtic on the wings. This change looked to be working well initially until Emma Westin, the left winger for Celtic had a shot blocked, it bounced back to her and she headed towards the goal. The entire Hearts defence watched as it seemingly rolled towards the keeper, but Natalie Ross nipped in just before she could claim it and just touched it over Johnstone.

Well in control of the game, Celtic now began to keep the ball with confidence and managed to play through until half time without any notable chances.

The second half started in the same as the first in terms of who was dictating things, although Celtic were this time sat back in a low block. The aim of their tactic this half seemed purely defensive rather than being a way to score as well, showing that they are able to switch gameplans seamlessly. Despite this, Hearts’ quick passes and fluent movement still caused problems, and had some passes been more accurate they could have easily found themselves one-on-one with the keeper Lisa Rodgers.

A Rodgers ‘injury’ gave Elena Sadiku an opportunity to change Celtic’s approach slightly, and after this they started to push out more, and Hearts’ attacking momentum began to slip away. 15 minutes from the end, Rodgers horribly misjudged a Kerri Halliday cross but luckily for her Claire Walsh was there to clear the ball off the line on her debut for the Ghirls.

As Hearts started to push more desperately, things opened up for them. A Rodgers save denied them, but on the brink of injury time Natalie Ross tried a kick a ball that Eilidh Shore went to head, and Hearts had a penalty. Georgia Timms converted to the bottom left corner and suddenly we were in for a brilliant finish. Jenna Slattery found herself through on goal in the dying second by Lisa Rodgers once again denied Hearts with a great diving save.

For the hosts, it was not the start to the season they were after. They seemed to be caught out by Celtic not competing with them for overall control of the game and it took them until the end of the first half to adjust accordingly, at that point it was already 2-0. Even when they did dominate the game, Hearts were never able to create enough clear chances early enough. The attacking changes did work eventually, but they were only threatening Celtic properly in injury time, which is simply not enough.

While Celtic will be happy with the result, they really should have put the game to bed. Through a combination of not attacking enough and not being clinical, Celtic let the game stay open as a contest, and in the end can thank Lisa Rodgers for the three points. However, it was a good showing for Elena Sadiku, whose tactics worked well and she was able to make adjustments when needed which affected the run of play.

Teams

Hearts (3-5-2): Johnstone, Ypema, E Husband, Waldie, Forsyth, Timms, Shore (c), Andrews, Wade, Johns, Adamolekun

Substitutes: J Husband (for Johns) 69’, Jardine (for Ypema) 70’, Halliday, (for Wade) 70’, Slattery (for Andrews) 78’, Greenwood (for Adamolekun) 85’, Chomczuk, Vilao

Scorer: Timms 90+1’

Celtic (4-4-2): Rodgers, Lawton, Clark (c), Walsh, Robertson, Ross, Nakao, Westin, McAneny, Gallacher, Cross

Substitutes: Streicek (for Westin) 57’, Noonan (for Gallacher) 73’ McGoldrick (for Cross) 86’, Dawson, Richardson, Logan

Scorers: Cross 21’, Ross 35’

Venue: Oriam National Performance Centre

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McKenna rockets Australia into ASEAN Final

Vietnam 1-2 Australia U23’s

By Kieran Yap 17/8/25

Above: Australia U23’s at half time Photo: Football

Australia’s Under 23 side has made the final of the ASEAN Championship after winning the semi final in front of a packed stadium against Vietnam.

Leticia McKenna delivered a virtuoso performance with a goal and an assist in a game that Australia were not able to dominate as easily as the last two, but looked their most organised so far.

Alana Jancevski wore the captain’s armband for the Aussie U23’s while Chloe Lincoln returned to the lineup as goalkeeper. Amy Chessari was back in midfield while Claudia Cicco joined Alana Cerne in being reinstated to the defence.

Australia has grown more visibly cohesive as a team during this tournament and that was most obvious in the opening goal. McKenna played a short corner and then delivered a curling in swinging cross from her right foot.

Aideen Keane’s run was perfectly timed across the goalkeeper’s path to nod the ball home in the seventh minute for her second of the tournament.

The goal came early enough where Vietnam would not be forced into recklessly chasing the game and were happy to let Australia enjoy the majority of possession. However, they were more adept at winning it back  than Timor Leste or Myanmar. Counter attacks and set pieces still posed a threat to the Aussies and Vietnam were unlucky not to draw level from a well constructed free kick and header.

The decisive goal arrived in the 25th minute. Some great buildup play on the left resulted in Holly Furphy laying the ball off to Mckenna. The Western Australian playmaker looked up, spotted an opportunity and fired a left foot rocket from long range to give Australia a 2-0 lead.

In a tournament filled with brilliant solo goals this might have been one of the very best. It was a confident, almost instinctive long range strike and delivered with technical perfection.

Opposition sides seem to have identified that compressing Australia’s midfield has a better impact than parking the bus, but Australia are able to launch counter attacks if they one and the passing and movement opened up enough space for McKenna to shoot.

Her ability to hit a ball like that on her left foot mean that she can be virtually impossible to shut down completely and in a tight game, those qualities can make all the difference. It was a goal worthy of winning any game.

Vietnam began to attack more in the second half, but Australia’s defence stood strong. The home side’s best chance lay in long, direct attacks and the fullbacks had to be on their guard.

It took until the 88th minute for Vietnam to pull one back, and it was another quality strike.

Thị Bích Nguyễn received the ball on the right flank, flicked it over her marker and steadied before hitting the ball under a diving Lincoln to make it 2-1.

Aideen Keane almost immediately restored the two goal buffer with a surging solo run on the counter attack, but some excellent goalkeeping from Thị Kim Trần kept Vietnam’s hopes alive.

Australia were able to hold on to until the final whistle and give them a chance win this tournament for the first time since 2008.

Teams: Vietnam:  Thị Kim Trần, Tran Thi Duyen, Thị Diễm Lê, Thị Chương, Thu Trần, Thị Thu Trần, Thị Bích Nguyễn, Thị Vạn Ngân, Huynh, Thái, Thị Thanh Nguyễn. Substitutes: Thị Hải Trần, Pham, Thị Nguyễn, Quách, Thương, Hoàng, Trần Thị, Tuyết Nguyễn, H. Nguyen, Duong, Thị Khổng, A. Nguyễn

Goals: Thị Bích Nguyễn 88’

Australia: Lincoln, Cicco, Tumeth, Cerne, Johnston, Chessari, Gomez, McKenna, Jancevski, Keane, Furphy.  Substitutes: Franco, James, Makris, Sakalis, Woods, Grove, Tonkin, Rasmussen, Cassidy, Lemon, Chinnama.

Goals: Keane 6’ McKenna 25’

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Renewed Rangers push for the title as Hibs aim to repeat: team-by-team guide to the 2025/26 SWPL

By Gethin Thurlow (16/8/25)

Above: A player from each of the 10 SWPL clubs as the league launches for the new season Photo: Colin Poultney/Malcolm Mackenzie

After years of Glasgow City domination, the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) had delivered 4 different winners in a row, and 3 straight title races going down to the wire. The 2025/26 season is gearing up to be another cracker, with the league more competitive and at a higher level than ever before.

Impetus’ Gethin Thurlow looks in depth at every team, how they have changed over the summer and how the table could be shaping up come May.

Hamilton Academical

The ‘Accies’ are the only new team in the league, having gained promotion by winning the SWPL2 last year. The jump from one league to the next is significant and as such a title-winning SWPL2 squad is probably quite far away from competing in the top league, especially with 10 teams instead of the 12 that made up the SWPL for the last few years.

With a clear understanding of this, Hamilton have added several players to their squad, particularly focusing on those with previous SWPL experience. Standout among these signings is the young midfielder Lucy Barclay, who has played for Celtic and Motherwell and will be key for Hamilton if they are to be competitive this year.

Manager Robert Watson has said in interviews that the club’s aim is to finish eighth, and while this may not seem ambitious, it would be an incredible achievement. The way it works in the SWPL is that 10th place goes straight down, then ninth goes into a playoff with the second-placed team from the SWPL2 to decide who will play in the SWPL the next season.

Given the quality of the top nine clubs from last year, all picking up at least 37 points across 32 games, beating two of these would be a huge success for Hamilton.  This is especially true when you consider that their players are not paid at all, while almost the entire league offers at least some part-time contracts.

It will take a lot for the Accies to avoid 10th place, and I’m not sure they will manage it, but they are sure to put up a fight in every game and represent the community of Hamilton appropriately.

Montrose

Above: Montrose walk out for a pre-season friendly Photo: @MontroseFCW on X

Montrose secured ninth position and survival with a 4-0 victory on the final day of last season. Having advanced up the leagues quickly since they were formed in 2016, staying in the top division was an important step for the club, and they will be looking to build on this as the league gets tougher.

To do this, the Gable Endies (yes this is their nickname) have been active in the transfer window, with the headline being a trio of loanees from Heart of Midlothian, including Ashley Robertson, who is a bright young Scottish talent in the left back position, currently representing Scotland at under-19’s level. Left winger Leah Fleming was the highlight in terms of permanent moves for Montrose, and she brings the pedigree of playing in America for the last three years.  

This season will be the most difficult yet for Montrose, as it is the first time that their most common final position of ninth or 10th will get them either relegated or in the playoffs. They will have to perform better than ever to confirm that top eight position.

Aberdeen

Another team that has been on the up since they got into the league is Aberdeen, who came home eighth last season after battling with Partick for seventh right to the death. Ultimately however, fighting between seventh and eighth is not where the club want to be, and they have transformed this summer in a bid to reach the top six.

18-year-old defender Abi Tobin joining permanently from Rangers was a steal for the Don’s. On loan at Hamilton last year, she claimed both the league title and the SWPL2 young player of the year. On the other end of the pitch, striker Bridget Galloway brings goals and experience in English football, having represented Sunderland, Newcastle, Durham and Nottingham Forrest across the top two divisions.

Perhaps the biggest statement of intent shown in any transfer across the league was by Aberdeen, in bringing Chelsea and England U-19 goalkeeper Katie Cox onboard for a season long loan. Developing under the guidance of some of the greatest keepers in the world, it’s clear Cox has incredible talent and she will bring so much to the SWPL. Whether it’s a young player and whether it’s just a loan or not, doing business with the eight-time English champions is no joke and Aberdeen have their sights clearly set on improving themselves beyond recognition.

Above: Aberdeen unveil new signing Katie Cox Photo: @AberdeenWomen on X

That initial goal for Aberdeen will be getting into the top six. While this may seem a random number, it would be a great achievement for Aberdeen and indeed the clubs above them for various reasons.

In Scotland, the ‘Split’ exists. This is where, after each team has played each other twice, the top six and bottom four form two separate groups, play each other twice again to make up the season. The final positions are determined by total points across all games, with the top split occupying the top six positions then the bottom four filling the rest. Even if someone from the bottom split ends with more points than someone from the top split overall, the top split team would stay above them as they have earned that position by qualifying for that top split position.

Due to five teams being professional, they are always going to take those top five places. As such getting into that top six by the time the split happens is the primary aim of all the other clubs, and being ‘best of the rest’ is almost like winning the league for them. This will undoubtedly be the main focus of Aberdeen, Partick Thistle and Motherwell for the upcoming season and the Dons have not hidden that intention with their work over the summer.

Partick Thistle

Partick had really asserted themselves as that sixth best team the last few years, so losing out on the top split last year was bitterly disappointing, although they were able to win games at the back end of the season unlike they usually get the chance to, surely a good thing for morale. As they said goodbye to the busiest man in football (Brain Graham had managed the women’s team at the same time being a player-manager at the men’s team) a rebuild was in order.

Dave Elliot was brought in to bring back that success on the pitch, while the recruitment team got to work behind the scenes. The losses of Caley Gibb and Tiree Burchill were tough, yet the fact that they secured professional football at Hibs proves the level of Partick, and the club’s ability to bring out the potential in those players.

Not everything went against Partick in the summer though and as Elliot described it was truly a coup to sign the Scottish footballing legend that is Jo Love. Capped an incredible 191 times for the national side, central midfielder Love won 21 trophies in her time at Glasgow City. While at 39 she may be past her peak physical capabilities, the experience, mentality, work ethic and undeniable talent she can bring to the club is invaluable and she will be responsible for any improvement shown by Partick this season.

Above: Jo Love with her new club Partick Thistle Photo: ThistleWFC on X

Motherwell

The team that made it at Thistle’s expense you’re wondering? That would be Motherwell. Reaching the top six is the best result in their relatively short history, but there are no laurels being rested on here, and having tasted that success Motherwell are pushing for more of the same as other teams around them strengthen too.

They have been as active as anyone in the transfer window, although it is not just players coming in. Player of the year for the last two years Louisa Boyes departed the club for title-hunting Glasgow City, but once again that is a positive reflection on the club in general. 16-year-old defender Lily Boyce from Rangers coming into the team on loan is very exciting and she is one to watch for the future. Getting your senior debut at Rangers aged only 15 is no mean feat and Motherwell’s defence will be shored up by her presence.  

After Hibs stalwart Shannon Leishman spent the second half of last year on loan a permanent deal seemed natural but is still a big scalp for Motherwell – to have someone that was such a major part of a fully professional team on their books will only serve them well as they look to return to that top split.

The only thing that you could suggest Motherwell would want to improve on after last season would be that performance once they got into the split. They lost every single game. While it is going to be difficult facing professional sides week after week; they still would have liked to take at least a point away and that can be something to aim for this season.

Heart of Midlothian

While fifth place last season saw Hearts dip below the position they’ve established since becoming professional – fourth; they were actually closer to the top than ever and it was arguably their greatest season. Indeed, that was what new signing Mairead Fulton from Glasgow City thought, explaining her decision to join the Edinburgh club by saying “seeing the progression over the last few seasons, it’s an exciting time to be part of the club.”

This is something that manager Eva Olid has been building since she was first appointed, and the clubs progress is clear to see in the way they cause issues to the title challengers now. Fulton described the Spanish manager as “one of the main factors” in her choice to sign with Hearts and praised the style of football which is “enjoyable to watch” under Olid.

It was a change of goalkeepers over the summer break as Charlotte Parker-Smith exited following six years at the club and Carolina Vilão, the Portuguese keeper replaced her, having played in New Zealand the season prior and with Benfica in the champions league before that. Keri Halliday is also a very exciting signing. The young winger has already become a star for her country Northern Ireland, winning player of the year in 2024.

For the season ahead, Fulton said that the club were aiming to “continue progressing and competing at the top,” which seems like a reasonable goal. By staying relatively stable and letting Eva Olid keep doing her thing without risking disrupting that by doing too much too soon, Hearts are setting themselves on a path towards to top and who knows whether this will be the year they can reach it.

Celtic

Around December 2024, it looked like Celtic had become a new version of Glasgow City and were on the brink of dominating Scottish football for years. They were top of the league, having finally claimed their first SWPL the season before and they were competing in the group stages of the Champions League, being the Scottish team to qualify. Then it all came crashing down. The number of games they were playing took its toll and Celtic collapsed, finishing only fourth in the end.

Above: Celtic clebrate the SWPL in the 23/24 season Photo: @CelticFCWomen on X

For such a big club, and following what was such a successful few months, that was a huge blow and a feeling that Celtic weren’t used to experiencing. The disappointment wouldn’t end there however as a mass of players left the club at the end of their contracts, including people that had been so crucial for the ‘Ghirls’ in their golden period. Bruna Lourenço, Lucy Ashworth Clifford, Murphy Agnew and Abi Harrison all departed, leaving holes throughout the starting lineup.  

However, there has only been two signings by Celtic so far. Defender Claire Walsh and Midfielder Lisa Robertson both bring strong experience from the SWPL, but they are perhaps not the ambitious, game changers that Celtic’s fanbase would have been hoping to see brought into the team. With so many areas weakened those players leaving not addressed by those two additions, its fair to say Celtic fans have not had a happy window.

Naturally, those two factors have led to manager Elena Sadiku being questioned but long serving defender Chloe Craig ensured to us that within the squad “she’s our leader, we’re all behind her.” While she may have the team fully behind her, the fans will still take some convincing, and Sadiku undoubtedly needs a fast start to the season if she is to persuade them and avoid more of that noise.

When challenged on the quality of the squad and their title-winning capabilities, Craig responded valiantly, arguing that every player is good enough for that because “if you’re at Celtic, you’re there for a reason” and that the squad has belief they can “right the wrongs of last season.” It is hard to judge this Celtic team, but their ability to have full focus on domestic football can only be beneficial.  

Rangers

Rangers must be feeling déjà vu. For the second season in a row, they come disappointed that the league title escaped them, while simultaneously wanting to repeat aspects of the season that did bring them success. Heartbreaking losses on the final day took the league title away from them in consecutive years, but the reprieve was back-to-back cup doubles. Asked whether those seasons can be a success despite the title eluding them, club captain Nicola Dochery told us “Four trophies – that is still a success, but it’s the league title we really want.”

Given how Rangers did play throughout the season, they really should have brought the title back to Ibrox. Scoring 139 goals across 32 games, Rangers blew away almost every opponent that they played, but it was the games against other title rivals they couldn’t hack. Two losses post-split to eventual champions Hibs made up their six-point losing margin, while they also fell to Glasgow City twice across the season. While they were able to score five past almost every opposition, this didn’t translate to getting through those tight games.

Looking ahead to this season, this will be the main thing for new manager Leanne Crichton to solve. After Jo Potter departed for Crystal Palace, Rangers’ search eventually led them to Glasgow City legend and then assistant coach Crichton. Nicola Docherty said she was “really excited” for the season ahead under Crichton, and that having played alongside her for almost a decade “I respect her just as much as my manager.”

Crichton will have to execute those plans without some key parts of that goalscoring machine last year, as Rio Hardy, Chelsea Cornet and Kirsty Maclean all left the club alongside keeper Victoria Essen. Rangers’ fans can feel positive though with the incomings, most notably Alice Griffiths, the Welsh international midfielder can bring that extra strength in midfield to help them control and dominate the midfield areas when facing those other top sides.

Glasgow City

Having won an incredible 16 titles overall including a run of 14 in a row, Glasgow have certainly got all the history in Scottish football. The professionalisation of more clubs however has seen others rise to challenge them, and last season marked the first time since 2007 that Glasgow lost the title two years straight. This does not mean they’re fading by any means however, battling right up towards the top every year and coming home second last year, securing Champions League football.

While many teams have suffered tough losses in the transfer window, Glasgow City have lost more talent than anyone. Arguably the best player in the league, commanding centre-back Samantha van Diemen was sold to Italian giants Roma, while their best striker Brenna Lovera moved to regular Champions League qualifiers SK Brann.

Glasgow have also probably brought the most quality to the club. Abi Harrison moved across the city, Loisa Boyes will add some quality to the squad after her brilliant recent run at Motherwell, while Irish international Erin McLaughlin is probably the headline signing in midfield. New defender Emma Brownlie told us she made the move from Hearts because it “felt like the right fit.” As a defender she will be tasked with trying to replace van Diemen, which is not easy at all.

When asked about ambitions for the upcoming year, Brownlie confidently expressed that Glasgow City have “built a squad we believe can compete on all fronts domestically,” and it remains clear that Glasgow City’s standards have not dropped even while the trophies have dried up a little. There is no reason to doubt them entering this season despite their big personal losses in the transfer window

Hibernian

Above: Hibs celebrate the SWPL title last season Photo: HibernianWomen on X

Finally then we come to last year’s champions. They somehow brought the SWPL back to Leith after consistent fifth place finishes in the seasons prior. With all the eyes on them, there will be no going under the radar so trying to win again will be an “extremely difficult task” in the words of striker Eilidh Adams.

What is unique about Hibernian this window is that they have managed to keep the squad that won the league together. Yes, they have lost some players, but no one that was a key playing member, especially in the back half of that historic season. The business they have done is exciting, bringing in youngsters Hannah Jordan and Tiree Burchill in the attacking areas, two players that were welcomed by Adams as it is “great to have competitiveness within the squad.”

While they are not new signings, the return of key players within the missed the crunch time of last season like Rachel Boyle and Ellis Notley can certainly help as the Hibees face a tough task to try and win the league again, while also playing Champions League football. Eilidh Adams emphasised that when it came to Europe “every player has a role” in the squad and managing the minutes of key players will be something Grant Scott has to get right.

When asked about the team’s aims for the season, Adams took a lesson from Grant Scott’s own expectation-setting last season, saying that they will “take each game as it comes” rather than focusing on the bigger picture. As a media tactic that worked so well last year, why not do it again, so expect to see similar words coming from Scott at any opportunity this season.  

Overall Picture

There we have it, a full breakdown of each team. With Hamilton and Montrose doing all they can to avoid that bottom two; Aberdeen, Partick and Motherwell all aiming for the top six the SWPL will be entertaining and twisting with every game and every goal. Meanwhile, Hibs miracle run last year means that any of the top five could win the title. There are arguments to be made for and against every team. With the teams looking so different from a year ago, who knows what could happen.

Having said that, if I was to make a prediction, this would be my table for the 2025/26 SWPL season.

  1. Glasgow City
  2. Rangers
  3. Hibernian
  4. Heart of Midlothian
  5. Celtic
  6. Aberdeen
  7. Partick Thistle
  8. Motherwell
  9. Montrose
  10. Hamilton Academical

The season kicks off tomorrow Sunday the 17th August, with BBC Alba and BBC Scotland showing games at least once per weekend. Many of the non-televised games are streamed on the club’s own YouTube channels.

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Australia qualifies for ASEAN semi-final with dominant win

Australia U23’s 9-0 Timor Leste

By Kieran Yap 14/8/25

Above: Australia’s starting lineup. Photo: Football Australia

Australia’s U23 side has qualified for the semi finals of the ASEAN Championships with a 9-0 thrashing of Timor Leste in the final group game. Braces to Holly Furphy, Alana Jancevski (and possibly Aideen Keane OR Emilia Makris) were added to by goals from Emilia Makris, Leticia Mckenna and Grace Johnston to set up an encounter with hosts Vietnam on Saturday.

Continuing the recent tradition of rotating the captaincy, Isabel Gomez donned the armband for the must-win game. She was partnered in midfield by Georgia Cassidy with Mckenna deployed in playmaking role ahead of them.

The attack began with Furphy in the central position, flanked by Jancevski on the right and Keane on the left.

Tahlia Franco began in goal for her first appearance of the tournament. She was protected by Tori Tumeth, Ella Tonkin, and Grace Johnston in the defence, with Sasha Grove switching from the left side to right back.

This was a strong squad that had found their footing in the tournament with an impressive win against The Philippines and against the winless Timor Leste, they went in favourites, but still had a job to do.

A win would likely see them jump ahead of The Philippines in the group, but it still had to be done, and the Australian U23’s were on the front foot from the opening whistle.

It took only two minute for Furphy to open the scoring. Mckenna’s free kick curled in from the left wing and the Victory striker leapt highest to head the ball beyond Gorette da Costa in goal.

Another quick attack found the mobile Gomez on the left. Her cross was directed towards Furphy’s aggressive run, but wound up at the back post where Jancevski was able to score her second of the tournament.

Australia added a third in the 30th minute after Cassidy strode through the middle of the pitc. Her pass eventually found its way to Grove and the cross was on a platter for the well position Furphy to tap in for her fourth in The ASEAN Championships so far.

Johnston scored the most spectacular goal of the match in the shadows of half time. The Perth Glory defender cut inside from the left and unleashed a rocket from 25 yards to make it 4-0 at the break.

Australia made two changes at half time, Tumeth was replaced by Naomi Chinnama and Emilia Makris came on for Furphy. Australia were flexing their considerable depth and bringing on fresh players who could  further influence the game.

The changes had an almost immediate effect. Makris’s introduction saw her take up position on the right wing, and the naturally left footed Jancevski scored her second with a long ball that the goalkeeper completely misjudged and mishandled. 

No complaints from the Aussies. 5-0.

Jancevski was involved in the sixth goal for the now rampant Australia. She chased down a wide pass and whipped in a cross to the back post. Makris arrived right on time to finish from close range.

After being the architect of so many attacks, it was McKenna’s turn to score one for herself. The Melbourne City gun finished Johnston’s cross with a composed volley in the 18 yard box.

Box Hill United playmaker Sofia Sakalis then had a chance to show off the best of her game. Her vision and lofted pass dissected the Timor Leste defence and Aideen Keane’s  control on the chest put her into enough space to finish unopposed.

The last goal of the evening was contentious. Some say Makris’s cross went in directly, some say it was an own goal. In real time it looked like Keane may have gotten the final feather touch.

In any case, the ball was in the net for the ninth time, Australia had reached the semi

Finals and gone one step better than the 2022 side.

Next up they likely face a huge crowd along with the hosts Vietnam. But the last two games should give the team and supporters every confidence they can reach the final for the first time since 2018.

Teams: Australia: Franco, Grove, Tumeth, Tonkin, Johnston, Gomez, Cassidy, McKenna, Jancevski, Furphy, Keane. Substitutes: Lincoln, James, Murray, Sakalis, Woods, Lemon, Chinnama, Cerne, Rasmussen, Chessari, Cicco.

Goals: Furphy 2’ 30’ Jancevski 11’ 46’ Johnston 44’ Makris 58’ McKenna 62’ Keane 79, Own Goal 82’ 

Timor Leste: da Costa, Conceição, Alves Belo, Martins, Fatima da Costa, Freitas Belo,    Da Silva Costa, Amaral, Soares, Fernandes Songge. Substitutes: Sim, da Cruz, Bossa, da Silva, M da Silva, De Fátima Soares, Chavez, Sanhes Chaves, Canizio, Margareta Fernandes, Lawa, Avelina.

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England’s FAWNL releases new three-year strategy: where our game grows

By Eloise Smallbone (13/08/2025)

Above: the FAWNL strategy ‘where our game grows’. Photo: The FA website.

Today, the FA Women’s National League (FAWNL) have announced a new strategy, titled ‘Where Our Game Grows’, aiming to take the third tier of English women’s football to the next level.

The strategy is intended to shape the future and direction of the league between 2025 and 2028. The FA WNL has outlined four key priority areas: environment, people, impact and commercial. ‘Where Our Game Grows’ is supported with investment from the Premier League and the aim is to further the development of both the FA WNL and the wider women’s football pyramid.

The league has previously had a strategy called ‘Empowering for Success’, which provided strong foundations for ‘Where Our Game Grows’. ‘Empowering for Success’ helped contribute to a 100% increase in average match attendances since 2021 and minimum standards were also introduced across the league.

Speaking on the new strategy, Sue Hough, Chair of the FA Women’s National League Board, said:

“We saw sustained growth throughout the previous strategy but now it’s time to step things up as we look to grow the profile and reach of the league and leverage the commercial opportunities within the women’s game. The Women’s National League is ‘Where Our Game Grows’- it’s the connection between the professional game and our grassroots players. Over the next three years we will ensure we offer our people, both on and off the pitch, the best environments to enable them and the league to thrive.”

As Hough highlighted, a key element of ‘Where Our Game Grows’ is that it is the next development from the league’s previous strategy. The FA WNL have considered the progress already, and looked at specific ways to sustain the league’s development. This involves four key priority areas. Within these priority areas, there are five threads which weave through each of them: diversity and inclusion, facilities, female health and wellbeing, safeguarding, and technology and data.

The first priority area is environment. There will be a focus on propelling club standards, protecting and enhancing positive culture and behaviour, and enhancing league delivery, with the aim to elevate the football environment overall. The second priority is people. The league goal is to establish a system where players, referees, coaches and club staff are all supported in achieving their goals, and they also have access to the best facilities.

Impact is the third strategic priority for the FA WNL, and they aim to build visibility, leverage the power of community to grow the league’s profile, as well as engaging diverse audiences. In general, there will be a focus on raising the profile of the WNL, through innovative storytelling, supporting clubs to become the heart of their communities, and finally, influencing and educating key football stakeholders to support the growth of the league. The final area is commercial: the FA WNL are aiming to increase their sustainability, by elevating commercial focus and collaborating with partners and clubs.

Nick Frith, Head of the Women’s Football Pyramid at the FA, said:

“We are to proud to be launching ‘Where our Game Grows’, a new strategy and roadmap that will shape the future of our league. The next three years will be about driving forward a series of initiatives that raise standards on and off the pitch. From enhancing club governance and championing progressive pathways to building partnerships and supporting clubs to unlock new revenue streams, we are focused on building a sustainable, inclusive and innovative league.”

Frith’s comments highlight that sustainability is a key focus of the ‘Where Our Game Grows’, and that the aim is to develop the FA WNL long-term, through the different elements outlined in the strategy.

The FA WNL season officially begins on Sunday 17th August.

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NPL Women’s NSW – Round 23 Wrap

By Georgie Lewis 13/8/25

Above: NWS Spirit. Photo: Georgie Lewis

Despite the wet and windy conditions, Round 23 of the National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW delivered another weekend of drama, goals, and season-defining moments.

Match of the Round – Illawarra Stingrays 1–0 UNSW

Under the lights at Ian McLennan Oval, the Stingrays struck early through Poppie Hooks and held on in a tense, rain-soaked contest. Both sides came in with high stakes — the Rays chasing a premiership, UNSW fighting for a finals berth — but only the home side handled the occasion. For UNSW, who have been flying in recent weeks, this was a deflating step back at the worst possible time. For Illawarra, it was another statement win in a title race that’s going down to the wire.

Bulls FC Academy 4–1 Sydney Olympic

It was all going Olympic’s way in the first half at Northbridge Oval. Alyssa Whinham’s stoppage-time penalty gave them the lead at the break, but the Bulls roared back with a ruthless second-half display. Isabella Coco-Di Sipio was the star, scoring a hat-trick in 31 minutes, while Petria Phillips added another as Olympic’s afternoon unravelled — not helped by Chloe Gordon’s red card. The Bulls showed exactly why they’re top of the ladder: clinical, relentless, and punishing in transition.

Macarthur Rams 3–0 Sydney University

Sydney Uni came into this one as one of the league’s in-form sides, but never found their rhythm. Macarthur took full advantage, with Lola Sossai opening the scoring before Tea Mucenski took over, scoring twice in the second half — one a close-range header, the other a composed finish after a sharp turn on the edge of the box. For the Rams, the three points are massive in the relegation fight. For Uni, this was a disappointing missed opportunity to keep climbing.

APIA Leichhardt 2–0 Northern Tigers

APIA’s dream run rolled on with another win, this time over the Northern Tigers. Ashlie Crofts scored in the 4th minute with a pinpoint header, then sealed the result in stoppage time with a surging run, a cool round of the keeper, and a tidy finish. The Tigers worked hard and created chances but couldn’t find the equaliser. APIA stay second and look every inch a title contender.

Western Sydney Wanderers 4–4 NWS Spirit

This one was pure chaos. Wanderers took the lead, Spirit hit back with three quick goals, Wanderers levelled before half-time, then went ahead after the restart, only for Spirit to equalise again. Olivia Vanderlaan scored either side of the break, Lola Greenberg netted twice for Spirit, and both sides will feel they could have taken more than a point. For neutrals, it was the match of the round; for the coaches, maybe a nightmare to rewatch defensively.

Mt Druitt Town Rangers 6–0 Newcastle Jets

The Rangers keep proving they’re not just here to make up the numbers. They blew the Jets away with five goals before half-time — Erin Leah Tavares scoring a hat-trick, Leena Khamis bagging two, and Rosaria Galea smashing in a beauty. Tavares completed her treble late on as the newcomers reinforced their reputation as a genuine finals threat.

Gladesville Ravens 0–3 Manly United

After holding the league leaders last week, Manly backed it up with a dominant second half at Christie Park. Sienna Dale pounced on a loose back pass to set up Ellie Kerr, then hammered in a goal of her own minutes later. Emily Minett rounded things out with a calm finish after good work from Grace Arnold. It’s a result that keeps Manly firmly in the hunt for finals football.

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