Lyon make Arsenal pay

8/10/25

Above: Melchie Dumorney celebrates last night. Photo: Sky Sports.

Arsenal 1-2 Olympique Lyonnes

Five Impetus writers – Alice de Koster-Kitto, Ava Elliott, Ben Gilby, Genevieve Henry and Isabelle Campbell look at specific areas of Arsenal’s Champions League tie with Olympique Lyonnes last night.

Arsenal’s Champions League defence began with a defeat at Meadow Park as eight-time winners Olympique Lyonnes proved to be just too good.

The history of encounters between these two sides in recent times has seen the away side come out on top, and that was the case once more on a very mild evening in Hertfordshire – but Arsenal were their own worst enemies as they saw their winless streak extend to four games.

Misfiring Gunners overpowered

by Ben Gilby at Meadow Park

To have any chance of defeating Lyon, every player has to be at 100% and there can be no basic errors. That was not the case for the defending European champions last night.

Renée Slegers made five changes from her side’s defeat at Manchester City on Saturday, whilst managing player minutes is important with two such huge games in close proximity, it also comes with major risk. Overall, that risk did not pay off for the North Londoners.

Arsenal’s back four consisted of two players in Katie Reid and Taylor Hinds, who have limited Champions League experience against the very best. Reid has been outstanding in the WSL, coming in for Leah Williamson, but it needs to be emphasised that she is a player at the beginning of her career, and facing the physicality and extreme press from Lyon is something that the Gunners’ more seasoned players found challenging.

Hinds stuck to her task doggedly, but was not able to offer the sort of offensive outlet and all-round nous that Katie McCabe has.

Arsenal’s strong start to the game was the result of fast-paced passing movements that allowed them to play through Lyon, resulting in Beth Mead feeding Alessia Russo for the home side’s early goal. However, after that, the French side showed exactly why they are this competition’s most successful club.

Jonatan Giráldez set his team up to play an ultra-high press – one that was employed with extreme pace. The Gunners had no time to play their passes and were forced into playing backwards, and the lack of time given to them was so marked that possession was coughed up with regularity.

In addition, Arsenal’s defence was uncomfortable with the physical presence and direct running of Lyon. The equaliser came when Daphne van Domselaar mistimed her clearance kick, which ran meekly to Melchie Dumorney. Whilst the Dutch keeper made an excellent save initially, the rebound fell for the Haitian superstar to score.

Dumorney made the most of another error at the back as the pressure on the home defence continued to rack up. An errant pass was rocketed into the net by the attacker for her second goal in five minutes.

Kadidiatou Diani was putting on a masterclass along the right. Put simply, Arsenal couldn’t handle her. Her physicality, pace, and know-how were just too much.

Faced with the ultra-press, the Gunners had very little outlet. They needed pace, and Mead wasn’t quite able to offer it.

Lyon had the time on the ball that the North Londoners were not allowed to have.

Above: Alessia Russo puts Arsenal ahead at Meadow Park. Photo: The Guardian.

Moving forwards

by Ava Elliott

Arsenal’s form in recent weeks has deviated far from expectation off the back of last year’s UWCL triumph. After a continuous run of impressive comebacks last season, there was no spark of inspiration or breakthrough to find an equaliser at the very least. 

Whilst this defeat feels heavy, there is still time for the Gunners to turn the tides, but in order to do so the errors of last night’s game cannot keep occurring. 

It’s clear that the absence of Leah Williamson is a burning, obvious loss from that backline. Whilst the defender is currently projected to make a return before Christmas, there has to be a vast improvement in defensive composure and organisation. 

As mentioned previously, the pairing of Reid and Hinds is a duo that lack experience, and coming toe to toe with the likes of Diani and Dumornay is no easy feat. Further, the defence often pushed too high and exposed a lot of space that Lyon were quick to attack and exploit. Evaluating positioning, and crucially after Van Domselaar’s mistakes the communication on field, will be key to delve into to ensure no more risky passes cost a win or a lead. 

Whilst Lyon were a level above, Arsenal struggled hugely. Overall they looked uncomfortable in possession, lacked a sense of urgency when in attacking positions and their performance on the pitch lacked the edge they seemed to have last season.

With countless variables to take into account moving forwards, it feels as if a reset is needed across all levels to rediscover that resilient team with so much potential to go the extra mile. Turning a season around after such a stale start will take a huge shift in energy, and the next fixtures both domestically and in Europe will be huge for the Gunners. 

Above: Frida Maanum (12) looks to play the pass last night. Photo: Suzy Lycett.

Steph Catley: Standing up to a tough test

by Isabelle Campbell

In Arsenal’s first UEFA Women’s Champions League match of the season, and their first as defending champions, Steph Catley delivered a composed and reliable performance in a tough 2-1 defeat to Olympique Lyonnes.

While she’s been without regular centre-back partner Leah Williamson for an extended period due to injury, Catley continues to adapt alongside young defender Katie Reid. This new partnership faced a serious test against Lyon’s stacked front line, but Catley held her shape well and remained a steady presence in a high-pressure environment.

She also looked to contribute further up the pitch, making a strong forward run in the 21st minute in an effort to spark some attacking momentum. Though no teammate was there to connect with the play, it showed her willingness to impact both ends of the pitch.

Defensively, she had to deal with constant threats from the likes of Melchie Dumornay, Marie-Antoinette Katoto, and Kadidiatou Diani, and her positioning and consistent tracking back helped to limit what could have been more damaging moments.

A highlight came in the 70th minute, when she denied Dumornay a likely hat-trick with a smart, well-timed block. It wasn’t her flashiest performance, and Arsenal struggled collectively at times, but Catley’s consistency, game sense, and work rate stood out once again.

In truth, what looks like a bad day for Steph Catley would still be one of the best performances a lot of players could hope for, a clear reflection of the level she operates at.

Above: Steph Catley covers Marie-Antoinette Katoto last night. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Caitlin Foord: Strong impact – should have started?

by Alice de Koster-Kitto

Caitlin Foord replaced Chloe Kelly in the match, coming off the bench in the 55th minute. Her attacking strength and speed made an immediate impact on the pace of the game.

Whilst Foord wasn’t able to get a goal back for her side, it wasn’t for the lack of effort. Notably, the Matilda’s effort four minutes into stoppage time was the closest the Gunners had come to an equalizer for most of the game; however, the ball fell just wide of the goal.

Foord provides a great replacement for Chloe Kelly, almost seamlessly slipping into her place. Both Kelly and Foord play a very physical, fast-paced game, which, while one of the most important elements in this Arsenal squad, isn’t always easily maintained for 90 minutes. Having these interchangeable, yet versatile forwards, allows that agility to stay at a steady level throughout the game, without the front line burning out under pressure.

Among her footwork and ability to take charge of the ball, it’s Foord’s speed and intuition that helped change the landscape for her teammates. She provides a sense of security on the pitch, which allows her teammates to take chances and risky passes, knowing that Foord is there to capitalise on them. The Australian’s footballing instincts and ability to read the game allowed her to accurately pass to her teammates in a way that caught the opponents off guard, consequently creating opportunities.

Although none of the chances created by or in conjunction with Foord came to fruition, there was a shift in momentum that could be felt throughout the second half, which gave her team and their fans a touch of promise at the tail end of a match that at times seemed quite lost.   

Above: Olympique Lyonnes goalkeeper Christiane Endler punches as Alessia Russo (23) watches on. Photo: Ben Gilby.

Kyra Cooney-Cross: Time for more minutes?

by Genevieve Henry

After just getting her first minutes of the season on Saturday, Kyra Cooney-Cross got subbed in to face Lyon in the 75th minute. While she barely put a foot wrong in her brief stint on the field, her impact could have been maximised if she had been given more time.

Cooney-Cross’s ability to take control of a game and create chances is much better utilized when given more time to settle into the game – and during Arsenal’s moments out of possession, her relentless chasing could have been vital in winning momentum back.

As soon as she came on the pitch, Cooney-Cross was given license to deliver set-pieces. While neither of her deliveries made much impact due to Lyon’s aerial superiority, this shows great confidence in Cooney-Cross’s ability over a deadball. 

The Australian was able to showcase some of her best qualities in her short time on the field. She was able to maneuver her way out of multiple players a few times and attempt to make a creative move. She showed good strength against Kadidiatou Diani and Melchie Dumornay, the latter of whom she chased around the pitch and frustrated until the final whistle.

Even with the lack of playing time, Cooney-Cross looked perfectly competent and energizing. Overall, her performance was that of a player who should be starting for her club.

Above: Olympique Lyonnes match-winner Melchie Dumorney celebrates last night. Photo: BBC.

Teams: ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): van Domselaar, Fox, Reid, Catley, Hinds, Little, Caldentey, Kelly, Maanum, Mead, Russo. Substitutes used: Foord (for Kelly 55′), Smith (for Reid 55′), Blackstenius (for Russo 75′), Cooney-Cross (for Caldentey 76′), McCabe (for Hinds 87′).

Scorer: Russo 7′.

OLYMPIQUE LYONNES (4-3-3): Endler, Tarciane, Renard, Engen, Bacha, Dumorney, Heaps, Shrader, Diani, Katoto, Chawinga. Substitutes: Joseph (for Chawinga 63′), Brand (for Joseph 68′), Egurrola (for Heaps 68′), Yohannes (for Shrader 76′), Hegerberg (for Katoto 76′).

Scorers: Dumorney 18′, 23′.

Referee: Maria Ferrieri Caputi (ITA).

Attendance: 3,023.

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The potential is huge: Olivia Smith’s first month at Arsenal

by Ben Gilby (7/10/25)

Above: Olivia Smith fires home her sensational debut goal for Arsenal against London City Lionesses on 6th September. Photo: New York Times.

Arsenal’s big-money signing Olivia Smith has had an eye-catching opening to the season at the North London side. I have been present at the Canadian’s games over her first month at the Gunners to carry out an in-depth analysis of why she has been so successful, how the opposition has tried to manage her threat, and how successful they were at doing so.

That debut

Smith shone like an absolute beacon on her WSL debut for the Gunners against London City Lionesses. Let’s leave aside that goal for a moment and focus on the other aspects of the Canadian starlet’s game.

My overriding memory of Smith in her side’s opening game was those powerful runs into channels, and an already thrilling partnership with Alessia Russo seemed to be cemented within the opening half hour of the match. Smith’s energetic and physical ability against the WSL newcomers raised the possibility that Russo would be able to play a slightly different role this season, potentially being able to be pushed further forward. But whatever transpires, WSL defences will be on their toes.

It will be, though, her stunning strike that levelled the scores against London City Lionesses that Smith will be remembered for. Pace allied with exceptional close control, and the presence of thought under pressure to look for bigger spaces to exploit, as well as having the sheer self-confidence to hit an absolute rocket across the goalkeeper from well outside the box.

Long-range finishes into the top corner are challenging enough – but to do it by smashing the ball at speed into the far top corner is something of a whole other level.

It does have to be said that London City Lionesses assisted the young attacker’s success throughout the game by continually backing off as she directly attacked them. Alanna Kennedy was regularly tied up in knots, and her defensive partners, still trying to gel after coming together during the summer, were unable to effectively assist the Australian.

So, Arsenal’s second league opponents, West Ham United, were well warned in advance about what Smith can do. Unfortunately, they failed to heed the flashing lights.

Smith’s skills leave the Irons Hammered

In her pre-game media conference, Gunners boss Renee Slegers hinted that Smith’s development needs to be carefully managed. Words that served as a preview to the Canadian star being placed on the substitutes’ bench for the trip to Dagenham.

“She’s…very young still, she’s just turned 21. What’s important for us is that we support her really well because she’s still very young.”

Renee Slegers, Arsenal head coach.

Whilst Smith was restricted to a cameo of around half an hour in the East End, she still gave plenty of signs of what an absolute weapon she is. Coming on with her side 3-1 up and cruising to a comfortable victory, the 21-year-old set to work with aplomb.

What was noticeable initially was her ability to drop back deeper into the hole in a zone between midfield and defence when West Ham were in possession before speeding out towards the right flank the instant the ball was won back.

Above: Half an hour on the pitch – one assist, one penalty, and the countless headaches for the right-hand side of West Ham’s defence – Olivia Smith’s Friday night out in Dagenham. Photo: Arsenal Women.

It was on this side of the park that the Canadian absolutely ripped it up. West Ham either failed to do their homework on her performance on the season’s opening day, or they were so flustered as a result of the relentless pressure and scoreline that they weren’t focused on the job at hand of stopping Smith before she got anywhere near the red zone.

In game one, Smith ran riot as the London City Lionesses’ defence backed off and let her rampage at will. West Ham did exactly the same this time round, as both Inès Belloumou and Smith’s Canadian international teammate, Shelina Zadorsky, allowed Smith to run at them and not put a tackle in.

The consequences were there for all to see as the clock edged towards the 90-minute mark. The Toronto-born attacker drove along the right as the home defence continued to back off, allowing her to square a perfectly weighted pass to Alessia Russo, positioned centrally to hit a rocket into the top corner of the net. It was quite a move from start to finish (https://www.skysports.com/football/video/42934/13429643/alessia-russo-scores-spectacular-strike-for-arsenals-fourth-goal-against-west-ham)

Just three minutes later, the Hammers did find a way to stop Smith’s run along the right – but it was badly timed and ended with the award of a penalty, which Russo dispatched to seal a 5-1 win.

Two wins from two, one goal, one assist, and winning a penalty. That’s a heck of a way to start your career at a new club.

New challenges to overcome
Above: Olivia Smith (right) was tightly marshalled by Manchester United on matchday three, but still had the game’s best chance. Photo: Arsenal Women.

Week three’s trip to the Leigh Sports Village offered a degree of difficulty for Smith that the previous encounters didn’t pose, for both on and off-pitch reasons.

Less than 24 hours before the game, the sport was rocked by the devastatingly premature death of Matt Beard, who took the young Canadian to Liverpool last season, and Smith commented that he played an integral part in making her the player she is. Arsenal gave the attacker the option of not playing at Manchester United – but the number 15 requested to take to the field.

Smith started the encounter, and it was clear that Marc Skinner and his coaches had given a lot of thought to how to nullify her threat.

From the opening whistle, United gave the visitors’ starlet no breathing space whatsoever. She was tightly marshalled by Emma Sandberg for the entire game. Sandberg didn’t back off once, and was supported by an additional defender immediately behind the Canadian, which meant that any chances of the former Liverpool attacker completing maurauding runs with balls into the box, or shots on goal were very few and far between.

However, Smith was able to gain space to earn one opportunity – and a player such as her only needs one. The outcome was an absolute rocket that was superbly tipped over the bar by Phallon Tullis Joyce in the United goal, although to the mystery of the Gunners, no corner was awarded.

The forward showed another superb aspect to her play, with her tracking back and putting in a perfectly timed tackle to deny Ella Toone just as the Lionesses star was about to pull the trigger for the Red Devils.

Whilst United showed that close marking and working overtime to deny Smith space has real merits, it was also clear that it is a full-time occupation for a defender. As this tactic is repeated by future Arsenal opponents, Smith will be looking to play quick link passes to the likes of Russo and Stina Blackstenius around her, who can run into the space left by the defender marking the Canadian and profit.

It takes a very switched-on defender to stick with Smith for a whole game. Sandberg did it brilliantly at the LSV – but still the attacker conjured up one superb chance that brought the game’s closest chance.

Smith strives to shine despite Villa’s plan to frustrate
Above: Olivia Smith accelerates away against Aston Villa. Photo: Arsenal Women.

Aston Villa have a history of causing Arsenal grief. Last season, the Midlands side claimed a 5-2 win at Villa Park, and the season before were heading to a shock victory before goals in second-half stoppage time from Katie McCabe and Alessia Russo spared the Gunners’ blushes.

This time around, Natalia Arroyo’s side gifted the hosts the lead just 10 minutes in, but recovered to deploy an extreme high press that forced Arsenal to go backwards in a bid to go forward. It took the sting out of the North London side’s pep in attack and turned the game into a battle of transitions.

It meant that Smith, who started the encounter, was given far fewer opportunities to show her worth as the Gunners were swamped and not able to find their wide players as accurately and as regularly as in the previous three WSL games.

Yet, each time she was played in, the Canadian had the better of her marker, Océane Deslandes. With three minutes on the clock, Smith left the French-born defender trailing in her wake to accelerate into space and won the corner thanks to the resulting one-two with Frida Maanum.

Just before the half-hour mark, once more, Smith turned on the afterburners to rocket up the flank before cutting in to win her side another corner. After this inauspicious start from Deslandes, Villa pulled midfielder Missy Bo Kearns back to assist.

As the game edged towards the interval, Villa were forcing the hosts into errors and turnover possession. It left Smith and Beth Mead increasingly cut off from possession. However, the young Gunner showed her intelligence by moving rapidly inside to the centre of the field off and out to either flank off the ball, pulling Deslandes and, occasionally, Kearns as well with her in a bid to free up space for team-mates to run into.

Villa combined the high press with a physical approach. Smith copped a tackle in the early stages of the second half that required treatment, and left the field with 65 minutes played, replaced by Caitlin Foord.

Bigger challenges ahead
Above: Olivia Smith takes on Manchester City’s Leila Ouahabi on Saturday. Photo: Arsenal Women.

It’s been a powerful start to Smith’s Arsenal career. However, with her side now on a run of three WSL games without a win, the beginning of their Champions League defence starting tonight against Olympique Lyonnes, and a league showdown with Chelsea soon after the international break, the 21-year-old is about to face a series of games with a degree of pressure on them that she hasn’t experienced in her club career to date.

There is absolutely no doubt that the Toronto-born star has the potential and ability to lift her side to the heights they aspire to – a record of 44 goals in 69 games tells its own story.

Yet Smith now has to do it with not only the target of her strong start to the season on her back, but the reality that Arsenal cannot afford the five-point gap between themselves and Chelsea to widen any further. There is no more wriggle room. That brings a level of pressure that is new for the attacker. What she does next will be well worth watching.

Don’t miss Impetus’ major analysis of Arsenal’s Champions League opener with Olympique Lyonnes with SIX writers coming together to examine different aspects of the game. It’ll be on the site on Wednesday 8th October.

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Tandberg in form for Spurs once again 

Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion

Above: The spurs team that lined up to face Brighton. Photo: Spurswomen on X.

By Aimee-Lou Caldecourt (5/10/25)

The Action

Both managers made one change from the last gameweek, with Ashleigh Neville coming in for Josefine Rybrink for Tottenham and Rachel McLauchlan coming in for MoekaMinami.

In the early stages Jess Naz was able to find herself in acres of space on the right hand side for Spurs to create chances and the first shot on target of the game which was calmly collected by Chiamaka Nnandozie in the sticks.

Spurs took the lead after 26 minutes. Cathinka Tandberg met the end of Olivia Holdt’s cross on the left hand side, and she tapped home. The Brighton defence struggled to keep up with the Spurs forward line and took their eye off Tandberg who slotted it into the net.

Brighton’s only real attempt of the first half came from a corner which floated in to find the head of Nadine Noordamthen to Michelle Agyemang who appealed for a foul in the box, but Lize Kop claimed the ball to her chest and nullified any further attempt. Brighton struggled to keep possession of the ball in the first half consequently not creating half as many dangerous attempts as Spurs.

The second half started quite quiet, with neither team really making an impact until around the 55 minute mark where it would be Spurs to challenge Nnadozie again, first with a free kick from Eveliina Summanen, then Bethany England who forced a near post collection.

After substitutions, Brighton seemed to have taken a 3-4-3 approach, with Marisa Olislagers on the left being more advanced up the pitch to try and challenge the more creative side of Spurs.

It was a tough day for the Seagulls as it seemed as though they were unable to keep up with the pace of Spurs, in particular when played out on the wing.

Tottenham end the match week in 3rd , much to the delight of Martin Ho who has transformed this team so far this season. Brighton remain 6th and look to bounce back in the Subway Cup midweek.

Line-ups:

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR: Kop (GK), Nilden, Naz (for Grant 88’), England ©, Holdt (for Vinberg, 66’), Hunt, Tandberg (for Thomas 71’), Spence (for Ahtinen 71’),Summanen, Neville, Koga

SUBS: Heeps (GK), Grant, Oroz, Rybrink, Vinberg, Graham, Thomas, Gunning-Williams, Ahtinen

GOALSCORERS: Tandberg (26’)

BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION: Nnandozie (GK), Kafaji, Symonds ©, Agyemang, Cankovic, Seike (for Rayner 88’), Noordam (for Camacho 71’), Hayes, Olislagers, McLauchlan (for Mpome 71’), Rule

SUBS: Poulter (GK), Baggaley (GK), Mpome, Carabali, Rayner, Camacho, Tsunoda, Milner, Heron

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WSL2: Sunderland v Charlton Athletic preview

By Alyce Collett (4/10/25)

Above: Sunderland huddle post-match. Photo: @SAFCWomen on X.

This weekend’s action in the Barclays WSL2 competition sees a potentially fascinating clash between two of the top three sides. Both Sunderland and Charlton Athletic have had strong starts to the season, but who will come out on top on Sunday?

Form

Both sides have made a pretty strong start to the season to date.

Charlton Athletic are currently sitting second on the table, with three wins and one draw to their name, while Sunderland are merely two points behind them in third after starting the year with two wins and two draws.

Sunderland come into this match off a one all draw with Southampton, while Charlton Athletic come into the clash off a 1-0 win over Newcastle United.

Free flowing attack vs tight defence

The interesting thing about this match up is that both sides have shown contrasting strengths this season.

For Sunderland, goals have not been an issue. They have the third best goals for tally so far this season (behind only Birmingham City on 12 and Southampton on nine), with five different players having gotten on the scoresheet.

Meanwhile for Charlton Athletic, it is their defence that is their strength.

Scoring has been a bit of an issue for them – with The Addicks currently holding the third lowest goals for tally in the competition – but their defence has been super strong, only conceding one goal so far this season.

Interestingly, in all of the matches Sunderland has conceded goals this season, the goals that Sunderland did concede came after the Lasses had scored all their goals they would end up scoring.

By contrast, the one goal Charlton has conceded this season was scored first in their match with Durham, but then Charlton came back and scored two goals to take the win.

This does also mean that the clean sheet stats are starkly different between the sides.

Charlton’s first choice keeper Sophie Whitehouse has kept three clean sheets, while Sunderland’s first choice keeper Grace Moloney has only done so once.

Where have the goals been coming from?

As previously mentioned, Sunderland have had five different players get on the scoresheet so far this season.

Emily Scarr has been the main source of Sunderland’s goals in 2025/26, scoring three goals to date. Katie Kitching has pitched in with two goals, while Isobel Atkinson, Rhiannon Roberts and Katie Watson have also gotten on the scoresheet.

In stark contrast, Charlton have not had anyone score more than one goal for it yet this season, with Emma Bissell, Gillian Kenney, Lucy Fitzgerald and Kate Bradley the ones to get on the scoreboard.

Sunderland v Charlton kicks off at 2pm UK time on Sunday. The game will be shown on the WSL 2 Youtube channel.

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Slegers says Arsenal must improve ahead of Manchester City clash

By Alice de Koster-Kitto (3/10/2025)

Above: a previous meeting between Arsenal and City. Photo: Arsenal website.

Arsenal head to the Joie Stadium this Saturday, where improvement will be top of mind as they take on Manchester City. The match follows a lackluster start to the season for the European champions, and their intent is to gain points and return to form, to restore their dreams of the title.

Head-to-Head history

The last two times Arsenal faced Manchester City, it was City’s game for the taking. A 1-2 defeat at home was a significant knock for the Gunners in the final stage of the Women’s League Cup, but overall, the two sides’ history is fairly even.

“This is one competition, and we’re very proud of what we have achieved, but very humbled and we want to do this consistently,” Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers reflected on success last season, “What we do now moving forward is to make sure that everyone stays sharp and invested. You have to keep evolving as well”, she added.

It was only in the past two trips to the Joie that Arsenal have been able to rewrite their history with the stadium, having not won a single match there between 2017-2024.

There is no real dominant side to this meeting historically, so a prediction is difficult. However, Chelsea’s draw with Manchester United has set up an electrifying match for the other half of the top four; one that could very well be an indicator of who will take charge in the title race.

Current form

Current form suggests it may be City who take home the points this round.

“[I look at it] game by game. [I’m] very disappointed, with the points we lost the last two games, we’re not happy with that,” Slegers reflected on her team’s recent drop in form. “But now we look forward, and every game you play for Arsenal, when you represent Arsenal, then you have to win and win every game” she added.

Slegers herself has faced Andree Jeglertz several times,  calling him a “great guy, and a good coach”, who she is thoroughly impressed by.

The opening four games of the WSL have not been kind to the Gunners. A 1-1 draw with Aston Villa saw a streak of home wins come to an end and saw them drop to fourth on the ladder, with eight points. Although they are two places behind their opponents, there is only one point difference, with the hosts sitting on nine, and a neck-in-neck goal difference.

Slegers reflected on the recent draws, saying “with Arsenal, you want to go for the full points. If we don’t, there will be disappointment.”

A win for Arsenal could very easily see them make their way back into the top three.

Team News

Leah Williamson is still unavailable for selection, making for a makeshift Arsenal defence. All other players are currently available, with Katie Reid currently being the choice replacement, over Lotte Wubben-Moy.

Difference Makers

The absence of vice captain Leah Williamson has seen Katie Reid take the reins of Arsenal’s defence.  The natural attacking threat of Manchester City will require an impenetrable back line if the Gunners want to hold their own and take home the points.

“We are still the same. We focus on ourselves. We look forward to the competition, but mostly we look forward to the game tomorrow”

All eyes will be on Chloe Kelly this match. The forward signed a permanent contract with Arsenal in the summer, after a loan stint with the club last season. Kelly’s development in this time has been astonishing, and the fire that comes with facing her past team, at her old home ground, could be exactly what Arsenal needs to break down the City side and get the goals they desperately need.

Above: Chloe Kelly for Arsenal. Photo: Suzy Lycett / @boodlepim.

Although Kelly has been mostly used as a substitute so far this season, her impact has been significant, and pulled together an often uncertain Arsenal squad. Slegers was asked what Kelly will bring to the clash:

“I think she will find the right levels, I think thats what special with Chloe, she has that fire inside her, which she uses in the right way, it creates so much for herself and her team, and that will be no different for tomorrow.”

Although recent results haven’t represented the powerhouse reputation Arsenal have built, Slegers and her team are taking it match-by-match, and have not given up their title hopes.

“I feel like we have had a good week with the players. Every game is important in the league because every opposition delivers different problems for us and we have to deliver consistently.”

Arsenal will take on Manchester City at the Joie Stadium on Saturday at 12pm UK time.

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Anna Sandberg scores belter as United end Chelsea winning streak

Manchester United 1 – 1 Chelsea

By Catherine MacKenzie (3/10/25)

Above: Both teams come together for a moment of silence. Photo: Jason Cairnduff/Action Images/Reuters.

In a wet and windy Manchester, the WSL’s current top two sides went head to head. Whilst no team emerged victorious, the draw will certainly feel like a win for the home team – they have only ever taken a single point from Chelsea in the league.

The context

Ahead of this game, most discussions seemed to focus on the title race. Whilst Chelsea have dominated recent years (clinching their eigth title last season), it looks like other clubs are beginning to close the gap. Arsenal have arguably gone one better by winning the one trophy that has eluded The Blues.

Before the summer, before the Euros and England’s unlikely triumph against Spain, The Gunners brought the Champions League back to England. That they achieved this by defeating the team that saw off Chelsea in the semi-finals by an aggregated 8-2 scoreline adds another element to the win.

Arsenal’s mixed recent form – including dropping points to both United and Aston Villa – opened the door for Chelsea to push ahead at the top of the table. United are occasionally mentioned as an outsider pick for the title race – and a first league win against Chelsea would certainly provide evidence for that.

Recent performances from Chelsea have been unconvincing, particularly defensively. Whilst they are still unbeaten under Sonia Bompastor, they are conceding more chances and completing more defensive actions, showing their defence is more frequently engaged. Their aggressive press is ruthless, creating a number of chances going forward, particularly through wingbacks pushing further up the pitch. Using a back three, this leaves space on the wings – areas where they have been vulnerable to overloads.

Friday evening’s game was tipped to be a ‘battle of the defences’. For their part, United had conceded one goal in the four WSL games so far – against London City Lionesses. The back five (including goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce) have extended their exemplary form from last season into the next, with the acquisition of Julia Zigiotti freeing up Dominique Janssen to return to the left-sided center-back role she plays for the Netherlands.

Given the two sides’ recent form, United fans would be forgiven for hoping that this would be a prime opportunity for that elusive first WSL win over Chelsea.

The teams

United head coach Marc Skinner made one change from the win over Liverpool as Swedish left-back Anna Sandberg came in for French forward Melvine Malard.

Chelsea utilised their impressive squad by making three changes. Australia’s electric Ellie Carpenter replaced Veerle Buurman, Catarina Macario was given the nod ahead of Oriane Jean-François in midfield, and Sandy Baltimore took Alyssa Thompson’s place in attack.

Aggie Beever-Jones had been in fine form, scoring four goals in Chelsea’s opening four games. However, she shifted to the left, with Macario up front.

The action

It was the home side who began the brightest as United forced Hannah Hampton into two early saves. Following this brief scare, Chelsea took control, bullying United in midfield. The trio of Wieke Kaptein, Erin Cuthbert and Keira Walsh have formed a consistent unit, and those relationships were clear to see in the visitors’ early flow. It didn’t take long for them to break the deadlock.

Johanna Rytting Kaneryd played a low ball to the near post, where Catarina Macario expertly held up play before flicking a clever backheel into the path of Wieke Kaptein. It was light work for the Dutch teenager to beat Phallon Tullis-Joyce with a powerful shot into the far corner.

For a few minutes, it looked like United were in for a long evening. However, they regrouped and almost capitalised on a loose pass out from Hampton followed swiftly by having a shot blocked by Sandy Baltimore on the edge of the box. The equaliser came suddenly as Chelsea failed to clear a cross. Ella Toone bounced the ball into the path of Sandberg who volleyed into the far corner.

The rest of the half saw both teams have periods of momentum; Tullis-Joyce produced an instinctive save from Kaptein, whilst Jess Park slithered her way around the Blues’ defence to have a shot at the Chelsea goal.

The second half began with United again seeing the brighter start. The visitors were sloppy and lacked momentum, conceding a flurry of chances in quick succession. However, the introduction of club record signing Alyssa Thompson changed the momentum as it allowed Beever-Jones back into the central attacking role, whilst Thompson’s directness gave the blues more creative ways of breaking through United’s midfield.

In a relatively even battle, the teams seemed to cancel each other out with few clear cut chances for either side until the final fifteen minutes of the game. Sam Kerr’s introduction brought a new impetus to the visitors as they peppered United’s goal with shots. They were either off target or met with a block from a strong United defense.

Where the game was won / lost

For United, there are two ways to take this result. There could be frustration that perhaps one of the best opportunities to finally beat Chelsea went spare. However, there must also be a sense of achievement: United had only ever taken one point from the Blues in WSL history.

Chelsea were frustrated for much of the game. With their wingbacks pressing high up the pitch, they left spaces behind that United exploited, using their fast-paced wide players to attack that space. Jess Park was an important factor in navigating through the visitors’ midfield, using slinky movements to manouvere in the tight spaces between Chelsea players.

Whilst Chelsea’s reinforcements from the bench exemplified the difference between the clubs’ approaches to women’s football, they were met with a strong and spirited United defence. If there were any fears that United would not continue their defensive momentum into a new season, they can surely be laid to rest.

Where does this leave the teams?

Chelsea do not tend to drop too many points: every point dropped may make an eventual difference in the title race. Arsenal face fellow title rivals Manchester City tomorrow – a win for City would see them usurp United and claim second in the table.

TEAMS: MANCHESTER UNITED (4-1-4-1): Tullis-Joyce, Riviere, Le Tissier, Janssen, Rolfö, Sandberg, Miyazawa, Park, Toone, Zigiotti Olme, Terland. Substitutes: Middleton-Patel, Rendell, Blundell, George, Awujo, Bizet Dønnum (for Riviere 76′), Naalsund, Malard (for Terland 59′), Williams.

Scorers: Sandberg 1-1, 20′.

CHELSEA (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Björn, Bright, Carpenter, Kaptein, Cuthbert, Walsh, Baltimore, Kaneryd, Macario, Beever-Jones. Substitutes: Peng, Reiten (for Kaneryd 83′), Thompson (for Kaptein 52′), Buurman, Kerr (for Macario 78′), Hamano, Jean-Francois, Nüsken (for Cuthbert 78′), Potter.

Scorers: Kaptein 0-1, 9′.

Referee: Abigail Byrne

Attendance: 5,105

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An Australian’s Guide to Serie A

Above: Juventus lifts the plate. Image: Paolo Comba.

By Alyce Collett (3/10/25).

This weekend sees the 2025/26 Serie A Femminile season kick off, with 12 teams set to battle it out to become Champions of Italy. 

Unlike previous seasons, there will be more interest from Australian women’s football fans in the comings and goings of the Serie A Femminile season after a number of Australians transferred to Italian teams in the mid-year transfer window. 

Continue reading to get up to speed on everything you need to know about the Serie A Femminile ahead of the brand new season. 

Who will be competing?

There will be 12 teams competing in the 2025/26 Serie A Femminile season: AS Roma, FC Como Women, Fiorentina, Genoa, Inter Milan, Juventus, Lazio, AC Milan, Napoli, Parma, Ternana and US Sassuolo Calcio.

Juventus are the reigning champions, having finished 14 points ahead of second placed Inter Milan, with AS Roma rounding out the top three. 

Genoa, Parma and Ternana are the new sides in the competition for this season after being promoted from Serie B Femminile, which is the second tier competition of the Italian football pyramid.

A change to the season structure:

Yes, so the way that the season will operate has changed. 

Previously, the competition would split in two based on ladder position part way through the season and teams would then play each team in their half of the ladder to help determine the champion and relegated sides (similar to what happens in Belgium). 

From this season moving forward though, it will be a simple season structure where everyone plays each other team twice, once at home and once away. 

Where are the Aussies playing?

Above: Winonah Heatley and Manuela Giugliano celebrate for AS Roma. Image: Roma Instagram.

There are four Aussies that will be playing in Italy’s top flight this season. 

Winonah Heatley has already had a busy first few months at AS Roma, playing a crucial part in her side’s successful journey through the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification process. 

Lively midfielder Alex Chidiac has also made the move to Italy and will be playing for FC Como Women this season, and gets to call players like Swiss star Alisha Lehmann her team mates. 

US Sassuolo Calcio have two Aussies at their disposal this season – recent Matildas’ debutant Jacynta Galabadaarachchi and young defender Jessika Nash. 

An Aussie already underway:

Whereas most of the Aussies playing in Italy are gearing up for their opening matches this weekend, one has hit the park already. 

Chloe Berryhill has signed with Como 1907 (no, not the same Como that Chidiac plays for) in Serie B Femminile. 

Berryhill’s new side are having a great start to the year thus far, currently sitting second on the ladder after three matches and are only two points behind the ladder leading Brescia Women’s.

Berryhill herself has not seen too much of the action yet, having only made her debut last weekend coming off the bench in the 15th minute of Como 1907’s big win over RES Donna Roma.

How can Australians watch the Serie A Femminile?

Australians can watch most, but unfortunately not all, of the games on DAZN. The service is completely free and does not need a VPN but you will need to create an account on the platform to watch the games. 

The number of games available to watch on DAZN fluctuates weekend to weekend, so keep an eye on the schedule on the DAZN website to know which ones you can watch. 

The first match available to watch on DAZN this weekend is Inter Milan’s clash with Ternana, which kicks off at 8:30pm AEST tomorrow. 

There will also be a handful of matches on DAZN’s Youtube channel, beginning with this weekend’s clash between Galabadaracchi’s Sassuolo and Juventus. 

2025/26 Serie A Femminile Opening Weekend Fixture

*All kick off times local

Saturday October 4th 

12:30pm kick off – AS Roma vs Parma and Inter Milan vs Ternana

3pm kick off – Napoli vs Fiorentina

6:30pm kick off – US Sassuolo vs Juventus

Sunday October 5th

12:30pm kick off – FC Como Women vs Lazio

3pm kick off – Genoa vs Milan

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SWPL status quo unchanged as Hibs draw with Glasgow City

Hibernian 1-1 Glasgow City

By Gethin Thurlow at Meadowbank for Impetus 2/10/25

Above: Glasgow City and Hibernian fight for the ball Photo: @HibernianWomen on x

Glasgow City stayed unbeaten with a draw at Meadowbank as Hibernian kept their title rivals in check on Wednesday night.

The Teams

After naming an almost unrecognisable starting eleven on Sunday, Grant Scott opted for a more established team, with Bowie and Livingstone coming back in on the wings. Grant, Linzi Taylor and Schumacher also made returns to the eleven.

The luxury of being able to rest top players with an eye on tonight was not something available to Leanne Ross on Sunday, as they headed to Ibrox. She did make a number of changes though, with Whelan coming in on the wing, Lauder and Lockwood into midfield and Warrington starting at right back.

The Action

Hibs controlled what was a cagey game early on, but it was Glasgow City with the greater threat. In a quick attacking move they had a two on two, with Harrison looking to find the wide open Kozlova in the box. Caley Gibb stayed in position however and intercepted the cross, knocking it out for a corner.

The hosts didn’t have to wait long for their chance though. Rachel Boyle intercepted an errant City pass, and beautifully played Livingstone in on goal. The winger couldn’t direct her first time shot on target, but it was a warning to Leanne Ross’s team at the very least.

Hibernian took confidence from this though, and continued to pepper the Glasgow City defence. Caley Gibb quickly took a throw-in in the attacking third and Rosie Livingstone was free on the by-line at the edge of the box, with time to play with, she delivered a cross right to Eilidh Adams, who merely had to deflect the ball into the side netting, giving Hibs a crucial lead.

After a concerning period which saw Notley and Boyle go down for the home side, some brilliant skill by Warrington down the right earned City a corner. As has been a theme throughout the season, Schumacher misjudged the corner, only able to drop the ball in front of her while leaving the goal unguarded. Katie Lockwood took advantage of this to smash the ball home and level the contest.

City kept looking dangerous from set pieces while Gibb and Livingstone were solely responsible for Hibs’ attacking threat. Neither team could find a breakthrough though and the first half ended feeling exactly like an unplanned Wednesday night game – that no one really wanted to be here.

Stacey Papadopoulos came on for Boyle to start the second 45 and instantly got involved as Hibs came out a revamped team with a new intensity and aggression. This pressure got them a couple of half chances, requiring defensive intervention from City’s backline. They held strong initially though with Warrington and Smit both working to deny Bowie and McGovern.

The new look Hibs left-hand side created more chances, with Papadopoulos and Bowie both finding space and putting good balls into the box, but Gibson and Glasgow City’s dominated any aerial balls into the box.

It was just Kozlova, who had moved into the middle at half time left to carry City’s attacking momentum; while Hibs plugged away with the majority of the ball, failing to create clear chances. Burchill had some flashes on the wing, but for the second game in a row they could not get star striker Kathleen McGovern involved enough.

Above: Nicole Kozlova holding up the ball Photo: GlasgowCityFC on x

Hunter played a magical ball in front of Adams, who got to it first and bore down on Gibson, but she was wiped from behind by an erratic Golob challenge, who left no choice for the referee but to send her off and hand Hibs a huge advantage for the final ten minutes.

McGovern could only roll the impending free kick into the grateful arms of Lee Gibson, but Hannah Jordan was brought on as Hibs sought to use the player advantage and gain a crucial win.

Despite one more well-placed corner from Notley, Lee Gibson once again stood tall and ensured a point to keep her team as the only unbeaten side in the SWPL.

Player of the Match Chloe Warrington

Often a very underrated member of the Glasgow City squad, Warrington has by no means been the main right back this year, but she shined with her opportunity today. Adding perhaps a layer of defensive ability above Lisa Evans, Warrington was tasked with the role of stopping an in-form Tegan Bowie, while Rachael Boyle would also attack on her side.

Hibs’ left side had pretty much no success in the first half and part of this was Warrington’s tight marking of Bowie. She also showed off skills and pace going forward as an attacking threat, creating some chances and winning some corners. When she was brought off in the second half, Hibernian’s output in that area increased significantly, evidencing her impact further.

Where this leaves the teams

Hibs will take a draw overall. It keeps that gap to first place at five points, which is much more closeable than the eight which would’ve been the reality had Glasgow City come out on top.

It also proved how much this year’s side could compete with the top sides in the league. A draw with Celtic and dismal loss at Tynecastle had left this uncertain. In this game though, particularly in the second half Hibs looked like the better team and confirmed their credentials as genuine title challengers.

After a weekend of cup action, Hibs look forward to hosting Rangers at Meadowbank on Sunday 12th of October as the title picture really starts to take shape.

It is another point and Glasgow City stay unbeaten. Leanne Ross will be extremely pleased with that aspect of these two games, but it’s another game where they looked the worse team on the pitch. Results matter much more than performances, but she will be surely demanding more from her side in future big matchups this season.

For Glasgow, their next league game will be hosting the battle of Petershill Park, as Partick Thistle head to the ground as an away side for the only team all year.

Teams: HIBERNIAN (4-2-3-1): Schumacher, Gibb, L Taylor, Hunter, Boyle (c), Grant, Notley, Livingstone, Adams, Bowie, McGovern Substitutes: Papadopoulos (for Boyle 46’) Burchill (for Livingstone 68’) Jordan (for Adams 89’)

Scorer: Adams 20’

GLASGOW CITY (4-3-3): Gibson, Warrington, Smit, Golob, Muir (c), Lauder, Anderson, Lockwood, Whelan, Harrison, Kozlova Substitutes: Maatta (for Harrison 46’) Forrest (for Kozlova 78’), Evans (for Warrington 78’), Mclaughlin (for Lauder 89’), Brownlie (for Lockwood 90’)

Scorer: Lockwood 32’

Referee: Lauren Whitehead

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Vrouwen Eredivisie Week 3: Excelsior get first away win in three years

By Jan-Kees Joosse (30/9/25)

Above: Excelsior Rotterdam celebrate their win. Photo: Excelsior Rotterdam.

In the third round of the Eredivisie some tough lessons were learned, alongside some positive ones: Excelsior’s surprise performance to get their first away win in three years is an inspiration for any team who have had to learn the hard way.  

Ajax can’t break AZ down and lose first points

AZ Alkmaar 0 – 0 Ajax

AZ and Ajax shared the spoils in Alkmaar on Sunday afternoon. In a match full of intensity and tactical adjustments, the encounter ended 0-0, a result that leaves both teams with mixed feelings.

Ajax, who had not dropped any points so far this season, faced a tough opponent in AZ, who pressed high from the very first whistle. Anouk Bruijl’s Ajax made some notable changes. The expected change was Mirte van Koppen starting on the left wing, taking the place of Lotte Keukelaar, who transfered to Real Madrid. In addition, Sherida Spitse returned to her old role as a number 8 in the midfield. It’s a remarkable choice given that the experienced midfielder had mainly directed play from the back line over the past three years.

(FC Leeuwinnen has profiled Lotte Keukelaar as having huge potential for The Netherlands)

From midfield, Spitse was able to oversee the game more effectively, close spaces, and track positions with greater ease. That became evident right away in the first half: Spitse actually plays more freely and applied her tactical ability naturally and useful in an inexperienced team. Yet AZ refused to be intimidated. The home side gave Ajax little time on the ball, pressed aggressively, and forced the visitors into excellent creative solutions for some actual danger.

Only toward the end of the first half Ajax did begin to grow into the game. Still, the second half started much like the first: AZ pressing forward, Ajax searching for answers. As the match went on, Ajax found more rhythm. Free kicks and corners created dangerous moments, but AZ’s goalkeeper and defense held firm.

Above: AZ v Ajax. Photo: Ajax website.

In the closing stages, substitutions changed the dynamic but not the scoreline. Floor Spaan and Eloualidi injected fresh energy for AZ, while Touzani and Elija added attacking threat for Ajax. Yet both sides remained in balance, and the goalless score stood.

For Ajax, the draw feels like a missed opportunity in the battle for the top spots with PSV and FC Twente. AZ, on the other hand, can be satisfied with taking a point against a top side – a result that gives confidence heading into the coming weeks.

Excelsior impress against Heerenveen

Excelsior continued their upward trajectory on Saturday evening with a surprising and convincing win over sc Heerenveen. The Rotterdam side showed not only their defensive organization but also their attacking potential. 

With their first game against PSV they showed their defensive strength, but scoring problems. Against AZ they scored their first goal and went ahead in the first half and played a tight match against AZ. Now against Heerenveen, they showed how much they are able to learn from each match and grow – with a 3-1 victory to gain their first three points and their first away win in three years.

This was very unexpected since Excelsior drew seven times and won only once last season. This wasn’t just luck, this was a great team performance with beautiful goals!

Early in the match, Excelsior managed to get neatly through the Heerenveen defense. Normally relying on their passing to play out from pressure, this time their accuracy was also used effectively in building towards goal. A well-crafted move led to the opening goal by Katelyn Hendriks, who slotted home to make it 1-0.

Heerenveen struggled with several injuries at the back, forcing experienced midfielder Inessa Kaag to drop into central defense, which weakened their midfield presence. Excelsior capitalized fully: after half an hour, Hilhorst doubled the lead with a delightful chip for 2-0.

Above: Heerenveen are left contemplating. Photo: sc Heerenveen website.

Excelsior also demonstrated clear improvement in their finishing, previously a point of criticism. In first-half stoppage time, they struck again. After an excellent pass from Hilhorst, Hendriks rounded the goalkeeper and secured a comfortable 3-0 lead at the break.

Although Excelsior conceded a goal late in the match and were unable to keep a clean sheet, the joy prevailed. A team that had so often been held to draws this season claimed three points in emphatic fashion.

PSV gain confidence in ‘Swiss-cheese’ defending from HERA

PSV Eindhoven 4 – 0 HERA United

PSV claimed a dominant win over HERA on Sunday evening, underlining their growing confidence in front of goal. The Eindhoven side began, as usual, in control of possession, but in the opening half they struggled to convert their dominance into a decisive scoreline.

Lore Jacobs was the most dangerous player in the first half, exploiting gaps in the HERA defense. After missing several good chances, she finally found the net with her fourth attempt, calmly shooting the ball into the far corner to give PSV a deserved 1-0 lead.

Not long after, Chimera Ripa once again proved to be a constant attacking threat. Known primarily for her headed goals, she showed she can also finish with her feet. After a sharp pass from Haentjes, Ripa dribbled past her marker and doubled the lead with a composed finish, making it 2-0.

The third goal came from an unlikely source: Siska Folkertsma, usually deployed as a full-back but positioned centrally on this occasion, found the net to put PSV 3-0 ahead for the first time this Eredivisie season.

The final strike was reserved for Liz Rijsbergen, who scored her first goal for PSV. Taking advantage of a broken HERA attack, she carried the ball from her own half and fired a powerful finish into the back of the net to seal a 4-0 victory.

With this performance, PSV demonstrated that their attack is starting to click, and the team looks sharp and well in sync going forward.

Above: PSV celebrate their win. Photo: PSV.nl.
Feyenoord leave league originals ADO Den Haag in the relegation zone

Feyenoord Rotterdam 2 – 0 ADO Den Haag

Feyenoord recorded another convincing victory over ADO Den Haag, further solidifying their position in the Eredivisie.

The home side took an early lead and kept the match firmly under control from start to finish. In just the second minute, a Feyenoord corner opened the scoring. Takeshigi calmly slotted the ball home to give the hosts an immediate advantage. In the 37th minute, Ella van Kerkhoven doubled the lead.

Above: Van Kerkhoven celebrates. Photo: Feyenoord website.

The Belgian forward has been struggling for form this season and had yet to score. She got her head to a strong cross from Van De Lavoir. Her goal against ADO was no coincidence: last season, she netted a hat-trick against the same opponent.

The second half seemed destined for a third Feyenoord goal, but neither side managed to add to the scoreline. ADO Den Haag once again struggled to create attacking chances when space was limited, while Feyenoord remained solid at the back and maintained control of the game.

With this win, Feyenoord once again underline their dominance in the Eredivisie, while ADO Den Haag continue to struggle near the bottom of the table.

FC Twente on cruise control against PEC Zwolle

PEC Zwolle 1 – 4 FC Twente

FC Twente secured a comfortable victory over PEC Zwolle on Sunday afternoon, underlining their strong form.

The hosts took an early lead and remained largely in control, although at the beginning their sharpness in front of goal was lacking, but in the end they finished convincingly. Not for the first time this season, they were most dangerous in the final stages of the game.

Early in the match, Jaimy Ravensbergen put Twente ahead. Her shot on the turn bounced in off the post to make it 1-0. Despite further chances in the first half through Ravensbergen, Rose Ivens and Jill Roord, the home side lacked the precision and decision-making to extend their lead.

After the break, Sophie Proost took charge. With a confident move, she delivered a pinpoint cross for Ravensbergen to head home, doubling the advantage to 2-0. PEC quickly pulled one back through Ilvy Seip, who converted after Carleer’s effort was blocked by Proost.

Above: Twente celebrate. Photo: FC Twente website.

But Proost again showed why coach Corina Dekker positions her centrally on the left. With a composed strike into the far corner, she restored Twente’s two-goal cushion at 3-1. In stoppage time, Jill Roord’s corner created danger for PEC, with Ginkel finishing off the play to seal a 4-1 win.

With this result, FC Twente confirm their strong form and remain firmly in the race at the top of the Eredivisie table.

FC Utrecht edge past NAC Breda

NAC Breda 1 – 3 FC Utrecht

FC Utrecht struggled but managed to claim a 3-1 victory over NAC on Sunday afternoon, keeping their points tally growing.

Despite the scoreline, Utrecht’s performance left plenty to be desired. The visitors started shakily, allowing NAC several early chances.

In the 25th minute, 17-year-old Rosalie Renferum opened the scoring. Stepping in for Lena Mahieu, who was suspended after last week’s red card, Renferum intercepted the ball near the NAC defense, created space for herself on the edge of the box, and calmly finished for her first goal with Utrecht. Earlier this year, she was part of the Netherlands U17 side that won the European Championship, and she marked her league start by giving Utrecht the lead.

Not long after, Brigitte Frank equalized for NAC, adding to her goal tally after also scoring against Feyenoord earlier this season. The quick reply gave NAC momentum, while Utrecht looked unsettled. Goalkeeper Bastiaen often came off her line too hastily, adding to the nervy look of the team. The defensive organisation and trust is unstable after Ilse van de Zanden left to Fiorentina. 

Eventually, Utrecht’s best attackers found their rhythm. Nikita Tromp and Lobke Loonen combined well, with Tromp threading a through ball behind the defense for Loonen, who calmly slotted past the keeper at the near post to restore the lead.

Above: Lobke Loonen for FC Utrecht. Photo: FC Utrecht website.

In stoppage time, Sam de Jong sealed a goal with a flattering scoreline by a creative split second moment. When Sam had the ball, all focus was on Loonen who was offside, so she decided in a split second to shoot the ball from distance, right over the goalkeeper who was off her line. NAC were caught by surprise and gave away a flattering 3-1 scoreline to Utrecht. 

Utrecht took home the three points, but their display was riddled with sloppiness and uncertainty. The team will need to improve its stability and focus in the coming weeks. But it’s still promising they will find their ways to win games. This must give them the trust they seem to crave at this moment in the competition.

Follow Jan for all the news about Dutch Women’s Football on www.fcleeuwinnen.nl. Read news about the star players, get strong point of views from our columnists and discover upcoming Dutch talents.

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Glasgow City maintain perfect start with late win at Ibrox

Rangers 0-1 Glasgow City

By Gethin Thurlow 29/9/25

Above: Glasgow City celebrate a goal in their last game against Hearts Photo: glasgowcityfc.co.uk

In a tight defensive game, Nicole Kozlova’s late goal meant City leapfrogged opponents Rangers at the top of the SWPL, with six wins from six games.

The Teams

As the two Leanne’s faced each other for the first time, Crichton went with the team she has finally started to settle on since coming in as the new manager. New signing Jess Pegram is a central part of that, as well as Kim Shin-Ji, who was loaned in last month. Pegram was at centre back while Shin-Ji got the start in attacking midfield. Leah Eddie made the bench for the first time all season, giving a boost to a team really struggling with defensive depth.

Leanne Ross was spoilt for choice in attack, and she went for a very aggressive lineup. Abi Harrison has been in brilliant form the last few weeks after signing from Celtic in the summer. She got the nod in the middle, with flexible forwards Nicole Kozlova and Sofia Maatta starting on the wings. Attacking midfielders Linda Motlhalo and Natalia Wrobel completed what was a vicious front five for City.

The Action

This Rangers team has looked susceptible early on throughout the season, and this game was no different. Glasgow City were able to move the ball up to the front three with relative ease, and it was Kozlova on the left that was causing most of the issues. She cutely combined with Harrison on two occasions, but Jenna Fife managed to keep her out both times.

While Glasgow City controlled the ball for the opening period of the game, Rangers still provided a threat on the counter, and Mia McAuley caused the City defence problems, moving past right back Lisa Evans multiple times. However, nothing quite fell to Katie Wilkinson in the middle and the score stayed at 0-0.

The first big chance of the game fell to Harrison, who was played in with a perfectly judged pass from Kozlova. Jenna Fife made a big double save, making herself as wide as possible before jumping back up to make the second save.

Just minutes later, Rangers’ best chance of the half arrived. Mia McAuley was played through one-on-one in similar fashion, and Lee Gibson came flying out to close down the angle, saving well. Lizzie Arnot also had a good chance pushed out for a corner by Gibson.

As the initial pressure from both sides quietened down, it became a very scrappy matchup with both midfields fighting for control. Neither defence could be effectively breached, and chances became rare.

Where there was a City weakness for Rangers to exploit, it was unusually the left side of defence. Captain Amy Muir had a rare off day with the ball at her feet. This is Leanne Ross’s side’s main avenue for playing the ball out from the back, but Muir misplaced some passes, and Rangers pressured that area more and more. McAuley and Shin-Ji were chiefly responsible for this and did a good job to generate turnovers.

This pressing from the hosts took away the out ball from City, and as such Rangers dominated possession in the second half. Despite all of this, they could not break down a solid City defence led by Golob and Smit in the middle.

The minutes ticked down and it felt like a 0-0 draw was the only result achievable. A wide Glasgow City free kick from about 30 yards out didn’t look like it would change that, but they pulled out a genius set-piece routine and Rangers were completely caught out. Lockwood stepped in front of the defence to meet the cross, flicking it over everyone to the back post. Kozlova was patiently waiting there, entirely unmarked, and she made no mistake converting the chance thus securing a massive win for her side.

Player of the Match

Kim Shin-Ji

Above: Kin Shin-Ji (blue) battles for the ball Photo: rangers.co.uk

While she wasn’t on the winning side, the South Korean midfielder was the best player and Rangers probably just edged it overall. She was given freedom to roam anywhere behind Wilkinson and took advantage of all that space. Making good runs forward to spread the defence out, sitting back and controlling the flow of the game and dribbling through the city team were all done by Shin-Ji on Sunday, and she was the flame keeping a quiet Rangers attack alive.

Where this leaves the teams

This is a big blow for Rangers. A draw would’ve been an acceptable result, keeping them two points clear of City having played an extra game. However, the result is crushing. Crichton’s former team now has the chance to put themselves five points clear of their rivals on Wednesday.

Performance wise, this was a solid day for Rangers. The defence looked better than it has for much of the season, and it improves with every game that Pegram and Hill is established as the central defensive pairing.

Goalscoring concerns remain very real however. For a team that scored so freely in 2024/25, Rangers have been outdone this time around by Celtic and Hibernian so far. If the title is going to come down to goal difference, then this is something Leanne Crichton will need to figure out. Perhaps last season’s attack would have scored in this game.

Above: Goals scored per game in the SWPL so far this season among the five professional teams

Leanne Ross can be delighted. A perfect start to the season with six wins from six in the league, and with a clearly defined winning method. Stay defensively solid, keep clean sheets and score enough goals to get games over the line. While City did not look incredible throughout the game, you are never going to roll over Rangers.

By hanging in there and getting the job done, Glasgow City proved that they’ve got something about them this year in the crucial title-deciders, much like Hibs of last year.

Speaking of them, it is a titanic matchup on Wednesday night as Glasgow travel to Edinburgh to take on last season’s champions. Win the game, and they will put themselves eight points clear of Hibs and Hearts, and five ahead of the Old Firm rivals.

Teams: RANGERS (4-2-3-1): Fife, Austin, Pegram, Hill, Docherty (c), McLeary, Cruft, McAuley, Shin-Ji, Arnot, Wilkinson. Substitutes: Sabajo (for Austin 62’), Berry (for Arnot 80’).

GLASGOW CITY (4-3-3): Gibson, Evans, Smit, Golob, Muir (c), Motlhalo, Anderson, Wrobel, Maatta, Harrison, Kozlova. Substitutes: Whelan (for Maatta 58’), Forrest (for Harrison 75’), Lockwood (for Wrobel 75’).

Scorer: Kozlova 85’.

Referee: Abbie Hendry.

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