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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Hearts sweep past Thistle with late burst

Partick Thistle 0-5 Heart of Midlothian

By Gethin Thurlow at Petershill Park for Impetus 28/9/25

Above: Carly Johns Celebrates scoring a goal earlier this year Photo: @heartswomenfc on x

Jenna Slattery inspired Hearts as they scored four late goals to ensure a victory in Glasgow, allowing them to keep pace with Hibs, Celtic and Rangers at the top of the SWPL.

The Teams

Dave Elliot brought super-sub Mya Bates, who scored a last second equaliser last weekend against Motherwell straight into the starting lineup. Usual starting defender Kate Fraser missed out however, facing her parent club. Rosie Slater came in to replace her. Lia Tweedie, who had a successful career at Hearts’ city rivals Hibernian surely would’ve been itching to get her name on the scoresheet.

For the visitors, it was a strong team as they looked to insert themselves back in the title race, having endured a difficult start to the season. Form had picked up of late though, and the two Husband’s in the backline had been crucial to this success. Another standout for Eva Olid’s side has been attacking midfielder Olufoasade Adamolekun, who started this game as well.

The Action

Hearts were in the ascendency from the beginning, and in particular Forsyth found herself in space down the right-hand side often, putting in some threatening balls that Partick were able to deal with.

The hosts held a very solid low block when defending, and at times had the whole team in the box almost, but that didn’t mean they played a negative game necessarily. In possession they looked to work the ball around, rather than targeting direct long balls and many teams in that kind of defensive shape would. Bates and Robinson on the wings were also the primary attacking threat from Thistle.

Thistle were able to crowd out central areas of the pitch, hence forcing Hearts to use the width of the pitch and relying on their defence to win aerial duels, which they showed could be done.

This managed to limit the impact of Adamolekun, who thrives on dribbling at the opposition with the ball, and facing a defence sitting back in this manner didn’t suit her. The Jamacian had to drop deep to pick up the ball at all and although her skill was on show, the wall of bodies in front of her never abided.

As the game wore on, Hearts started to switch up their attacks. Trying some early balls over the top of the defence, and even attempting passes through the middle, in the hope of navigating all those bodies. This empowered Partick’s attack, giving them more space and time to work with and they were happy to commit a front-five when going forward.

Olid’s strike pairing, Timms and Johns also dropped into midfield at times, and they sought to disrupt the structure of the home side’s defence and open up any space they could.

Hearts’ first big chance came from a turnover in the attacking, as Partick were caught out passing from the back. Johns squared the ball to Shore, who was open in the middle, but Handley recovered expertly from her left-back spot to block the shot.

As the second half began, Partick looked more like the fully professional side, attacking freely and holding a defensive line, which saw Hearts offside almost any time they approached the goal.

Jo Love, who had remained back with the defence throughout the first 45 was ahifted forwards, and her ability to control the game and recycle the ball to the right choice every time really allowed Thistle to attack in a less rushed and desperate way.

However, against the run of play, Hearts showed their individual quality. Following a Partick Thistle attack, Timms picked the ball up on the left, a few yards away from the box and swung a shot into the bottom left corner, the bounce landed perfectly to beat Currie and Hearts had the lead.

Hearts were settled by the opening goal and soon secured the three points. Slattery beautifully curled a free kick from the edge of the penalty box into the corner and Eva Olid’s sides’ late procession began.

All in the final 10 minutes, Johns scored twice and Slattery added a second, all from close range and the elastic was well and truly broken and the Partick defence caved in.

Player of the Match

Jenna Slattery

The Midfielder came on tasked with getting Hearts past a strong Partick defence which had so far held them to no major chances. In the 32 minutes plus stoppage time she played, they scored five goals as a team and two herself.

What Slattery brought to the Jambo’s was a technical presence, which allowed her to move through that tight midfield, and some clarity in terms of decision making in the final third, which they had been lacking

Where this leaves the teams

For the hosts, it validated their week in training and tactical decisions by Dave Elliot. For much of the game, they looked like an equal match of the fully professional Hearts, and they showed this could be done with possession, rather than just by sitting back in a low block and counterattacking directly like most teams do.

Having held Hibernian for the first half in their earlier matchup this season, Partick have proved that competing with those teams is not out of the picture. However, they conceded five goals in both those games. This seems to show off mainly the fitness difference between Thistle and the professional teams. When matching their opposition in terms of energy output, then they just cannot quite hold on at the end and the results go dramatically against them.

It is perhaps worth considering a slightly different gameplan when they next face a top side then. But overall, despite the result there are many positives for Partick to take.

For Hearts, the result is ultimately most important. The margin flattered Eva Olid’s side significantly by the end, but they should get credit for being able to adapt both tactically and personal-wise to the defence which Partick threw at them.

It is also worth noting that in such a game, it is easy to get frustrated and feel like a goal is never coming, but they stayed focused as ever, the chances kept coming and eventually they were able to convert. Timms and Johns both getting on the scoresheet as your strikers is always a positive thing too.

Teams: PARTICK THISTLE (4-3-3): Currie, Slater, Falconer (c), McCulloch, Handley, Donaldson, Love, Rennie, Bates, Tweedie. Substitutes: King (for Bates 57’) Ferguson (for McCulloch 78’), Syrjanen (for Tweedie 78’), English (for Donaldson 81’).

HEART OF MIDLOTHIAN: (3-5-2): Johnstone, E Husband, Hunter (c), J Husband, Forsyth, Shore, Andrews, Adamolekun, Wade, Timms, Johns. Substitutes: Jardine (for Forsyth 46’) Slattery (for Andrews 58’) Hutchison (for Adamolekun 67’) Waldie (for Wade 78’), Ypema (for Hunter 78’).

Scorers: Timms 64’, Slattery 74’, Johns 80’, Slattery 81’, Timms 83’.

Referee: Ewan Dunn.

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Tottenham resist fight from Foxes to claim three points

Leicester City 1 – 2 Tottenham Hotspur

By Tom Coopey (28/9/25)

Above: Tottenham celebrate their second goal. Photo: Tottenham Hotspur Women.

Tottenham Hotspur grabbed their third league win of the season, after goals from Cathinka Tandberg and Olivia Holdt. 

Tottenham were able to pick up another three points on the road this season, surpassing Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. 

Leicester were in search of their second win of the season and looked to carry the momentum of a midweek win in the cup into Sunday’s affair. For Tottenham, after a relatively positive start to the season, they looked to continue their good record against Leicester. 

It was a fairly even tie but a bright start from the visitors proved crucial in the end, after two goals were scored in quick succession from Martin Ho’s side. Sam Tierney pulled one back for the Foxes before the break, yet Spurs were able to hold onto their slender lead. 

The teams

Rick Passmoor made just one change from the side that narrowly lost 1-0 in their last league meeting against Chelsea, with Belgian international Sari Kees coming in for summer signing Celeste Boureille, who was not in the squad for the game. Shannon O’Brien was also named on the bench, returning from suspension.

Meanwhile for the visitors, Holdt started on the right-wing after scoring Spurs’ only goal in their 1-5 loss against Manchester City. Josefine Rybrink also came into the side for Charli Grant. 

The action

Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur came together before the game with a minute of silence to pay tribute to Matt Beard, after the news of his tragic passing. The players and staff also wore black armbands for the game to remember an amazing person in women’s football. 

Spurs started brightly, with Janina Leitzig called into action just two minutes in, getting down well to her near post to deny Tandberg from opening the scoring. It was the start of numerous Spurs chances to come. 

In the 15th minute, Spurs capitalised on their positive start in the East-Midlands, withTandberg grabbing her second Barclay’s Women’s Super League goal of the season. After a scramble in the box, the ball kindly fell to the Norwegian striker, poking it into the far bottom corner to open the scoring. 

It took just little over five minutes for the visitors to grab their second of the afternoon, after a delightful finish from Holdt. Leicester would rue a missed opportunity just moments before the goal, as Holdt punished the Foxes. Eveliina Summanen slipped the winger through on goal, and an audacious chip saw it fly over Leitzig’s head and into the back of the net. 

Leicester weren’t short of creating chances, and in the 40th minute they were able to convert, reducing the deficit to one. Hannah Cain’s ball from the right-hand side deflected to the on-rushing Tierney at the back-post, who smashed it in from close-range to make it game on. 

Spurs started the second half like they did the first, creating opportunities as they looked to regain their two-goal advantage. Passmoor made an attacking double change just before the hour mark, with Jutta Rantala and Chantelle Swaby introduced, as Leicester searched for the leveller. 

The Foxes began to show signs of promise,with Cain coming close after her first-time effort from close-range was blocked after a lovely move from the home side. Spurs’ ability to slow the game down and control it was proving frustrating for Passmoor’s side. 

Despite Leicester’s best efforts, they struggled for quality at the crucial moments despite finding themselves in good positions, with Tottenham able to hold on to their 1-2 lead and take the three points. 

Spurs played out the additional seven minutes, staying organised and resisting the Leicester pressure to get their third league win of this campaign. 

Player of the match – Olivia Holdt

Holdt’s delicate finish in the first period proved to be the eventual match-winner, and she produced some quality moments on the right-side throughout the game. 

Holdt is proving to be a crucial player so far for Martin Ho’s side this season, scoring two goals in as many games. The Danish winger also wasn’t afraid of getting stuck in, winning 10 out of her 15 duals, as well as being fouled five times, proving tricky to come up against. 

An honourable mention to Amanda Nildén at left-back, who dealt with Hannah Cain well and was key to Tottenham being able to get over the line. 

Above: Olivia Holdt. Photo: Tottenham official website

Final thoughts

It was a positive outing for Tottenham Hotspur as they were victorious, and Ho would have been happy with how his side managed the second half in-particular to see out the win. It could have maybe been a more comfortable victory but claiming the three points was the main thing. 

Leicester are still looking to be settling in this season under the new appointment of Passmoor, which was made just 11 days before the start of the season. There were plenty of positives to take, and the Foxes were able to make a game out of it after a slow start. That fighting spirit will be valued going forward. 

TEAMS: LEICESTER CITY (3-4-2-1): Leitzig, Cayman, Kees, Thibaud, Payne, Tierney, McLoughlin, Ale, Cain, Eiríksdóttir; Van Egmond. Substitutes: Rantala (forEiríksdóttir 58’), Swaby (for Payne 58’), O’Brien (for Cain 73’), Mouchon (for Cayman 80’)

Scorers: Tierney 40’

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (4-2-3-1): Kop, Rybrink, Koga, Hunt, Nildén, Summanen, Spence, Holdt, England, Naz, Tandberg. Substitues:,Ahtinen (for Spence 45’), Dennis (for Naz 59’), Neville (for Rybrink 65’), Graham (for England 65’), Thomas (for Holdt 80’).

Scorers: Tandberg 15’, Holdt 21’

Attendance: TBC

Referee: Harrison Blair

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Villa snatch late draw to stun Arsenal

Arsenal 1-1 Aston Villa

By Rachel Gore (27/09/25)

Above: Aston Villa celebrate their injury-time equaliser Photo: avfc.co.uk

Aston Villa snatched a late point against Arsenal at the Emirates with a dramatic last-minute equaliser.

Prior to this match, Arsenal sat in third place in the WSL table having won their two opening matches and drawn in their most recent fixture against Manchester United. 

Aston Villa, however, are on the opposite end of the table; the club were in 10th place having had their last match against Liverpool postponed. In the two WSL matches that they had played prior to today’s fixture, Villa had taken away one point from a draw against Brighton and Hove Albion. 

The teams

Arsenal’s starting 11 took a 4-2-3-1 formation and included youngster Katie Reid who has impressed so far this season. Having turned 19 this week, the defender has played every minute of Arsenal’s WSL campaign so far this season. 

Olivia Smith featured once more in the starting line up with Stina Blackstenius and Caitlin Foord dropping to the bench. Replacing Blackstenius and Foord was Beth Mead and Frida Maanum. 

Up front for the Gunners was Alessia Russo, who took third place at the Ballon d’Or awards on Monday evening.

At the awards, Arsenal won Women’s Club of the year, an achievement which was recognised ahead of kick-off. 

In the stands, 24,712 fans cheered on as their club’s Ballon d’Or successes were recognised. The tens of thousands of observers were loud throughout the match, meaning that Arsenal’s home advantage was constantly felt.

Any away match at the Emirates is tough for visitors and today it was Aston Villa who were put up to the challenge of facing Arsenal at their home stadium.

Villa lined up in a 3-4-3 formation with their captain, Rachel Daly, up front. This match marked Daly’s 100th WSL appearance. 

Noelle Maritz is currently suspended so Rachel Maltby, an 18-year-old player, replaced her as left wing back. Another young baller, Lucia Kendall, also featured in Villa’s starting eleven. Kendall replaced Kirsty Hanson who began on the bench

Post match, Aston Villa’s manager, Natalia Arroyo, described the decision to exclude the experienced Hanson from the starting lineup as a “difficult decision.” 

Sabrina D’Angelo stood between the sticks for Villa. D’Angelo was substituted off during Villa’s WSL season opener and replaced by Ellie Roebuck who played the entirety of the team’s following matches. Roebuck was absent from the matchday squad today with 18-year-old Soffia Kelly being the goalkeeper on Villa’s bench. 

The action

Before the five-minute mark Arsenal had earnt themselves two corners and prompted Villa’s D’Angelo to punch the ball away from the goal. 

Following this initial dominance from the home team, Villa managed to drive the ball back into their attacking half. Reid stopped her fellow young Lioness, Maltby, from passing the ball into the box but it took a few more interceptions from Arsenal players before they managed to bring the ball away from their goal. 

In these first few minutes of the match, Reid’s excellence shone through. Whilst Arsenal dominated possession, Reid dictated much of the game; she made controlled passes to, and from, Van Domselaar.

Reid was faced with marking one of Villa’s standout players, Ebony Salmon, whose quick pace and competitive edge was evident. 

At 10 minutes, Maanum opened the scoring when she slotted the ball past D’Angelo and into the net. Mariona Caldentey assisted Maanum who had been left in open space by Villa’s defenders. Just before halftime, Maanum nearly earnt herself a brace in the first half; she ended up sliding into the back post after not quite getting on the end of a pass from Mead. 

The second half got off to a slow start as Arsenal medics entered the pitch twice in under five minutes. Firstly, for a clash of heads and secondly to assist Steph Catley who was holding her elbow and appeared to be in pain. No substitutions were made, and Catley ran back onto the pitch to the sound of cheering fans. 

A half time switch for Villa saw Daly exit the pitch and Hanson enter. Hanson immediately contributed to the match as she slid the ball to Grant who shot it just wide of the goal. 

This shot reiterated Villa’s ability. The away team put up a fight and made consistent attacking runs until the 62nd minute when Arsenal regained control. 

Even with the help of substitutes, Foord and Victoria Pelova, Arsenal struggled to suppress Villa’s momentum. 

At 74 minutes, Villa’s Baijlings went down and clutched onto her knee. She was substituted off with injury and replaced by Miriael Taylor. The pause in play allowed for conversations between footballers and staff. This reset allowed Arsenal tocome back stronger. 

The home team picked up the pace and the crowd loudened.The likes of Foord made attempts on goal, but Villa’s defence remained firm. 

Both team’s goalkeepers who shone in the game’s final moments. D’Angelo made critical saves and prevented many a goal from Arsenal. Likewise, Van Domselaar’s talent was highlighted when she made a save against Bo Kearns and then knocked the ball away after Villa took a shot from a free kick. 

In the fourth minute of added time a defensive error from Arsenal led to a chaotic goal from Villa’s Lucy Parker. On her second attempt, Parker lashed the ball into the net and ran off in celebration with her teammates. 

A Villa goal had been coming for a long time; Arsenal could not quite silence their guests and frequently found themselves making late defensive tackles. 

It is safe to say that Villa’s goal sparked a fire in Arsenal who spent the last few minutes of the match frantically trying to gain a winner. Their efforts, however, failed and ultimately the points were shared at the Emirates. 

The takeaways

Today’s fixture truly was a game of two halves. 

Arsenal came out strong and had full control on the ball in the first half. They made calm, tight passes which often came off players’ first touches. Their early goal, and team cohesion, was evident. At the break, there was belief that Arsenal would take the win; Villa did have strong moments but were ultimately falling short. 

The second half, however, was entirely different. 

Villa’s determination was immediately noticeable: D’Angelo saved numerous shots; Patten made many tackles and the team’s forwards persistently made attacking runs.

This hard work paid off as Villa were able to wear down Arsenal and secure a draw on the road. In what could have been an easy match for Arsenal, they had to give everything to get the ball in the net and could not quite prevent Villa from scoring.

Aston Villa’s ability to hold their own against Arsenal is significant and highlights their potential. 

Arroyo, spoke on what the point means for her team after the match. She said:

“I think the main thing is dreaming, dreaming, dreaming, trying, trying, trying until the end and definitely this one point is x in this massive stadium against Arsenal.”

For Arsenal, losing points to a club that sits significantly below them in the WSL table is frustrating. The club’s manager, Renee Slegers spoke on this and said:

“I believe in these players, they can play at the highest level. For some reason that did not happen today.”

Where this leaves the Arsenal and Aston Villa

This fixture is the first of game week four and the only one to take place on the Saturday. The remainder of matches take place tomorrow, on Sunday 28th September, meaning that table positions are still subject to change. 

For now, Arsenal sits in second place. If Manchester United draw or win tomorrow, they will overtake the Gunners, and if Manchester City or Tottenham win their matches, they too will find themselves on top of the reigning champions of Europe. 

This is a disappointing position for Slegers’ squad to find themselves in. Speaking on Arsenal’s position in the WSL table, Slegers said:

“Now we’ve lost four points, that’s not what we wanted. The only thing we can do is learn now and learn very fast because the next game is very important for us.”

The draw keeps Villa in 10th place. Despite their stagnant position, the point is a glimmer of hope for Villa. A draw against Arsenal, who many predicted will win the WSL, will bring confidence to Villa’s players, staff and fans alike.

Teams ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): Van Domselaar, Fox, Catley, Caldentey, Mead, Little (c), McCabe, L. Maanum, Smith, Russo, Reid. Substitutes: Foord (for Smith 63’), Pelova (for Maanum 63’), Kelly, (for Mead 86’), Hinds (for McCabe 86’), Wubben-Moy (for Caldentey 90+2’)

Scorer: Maanum 10’.

ASTON VILLA (3-4-3): D’Angelo, Patten, Bo Kearns, Baijings, Daly (c), Wilms, Salmon, Kendall, Grant, Deslandes, Maltby. Substitutes: Hanson (for Daly 45’), Mullet (for Salmon 58’). Tomas (for Maltby 58’), Parker (for Deslandes 68’), Taylor (for Baijlings 75’)

Scorer: Parker 90+4’.

Referee: Lisa Benn.

Attendance: 24,712.

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WSL: Spurs aim for top five spot ahead of visit to Leicester City

By Rachel Gore (27/9/25)

Above: Tottenham’s Lize Kop and Martin Ho. Photo: The WSL.

On Sunday, in game week four of the WSL, Spurs will take on Leicester City away. After a disappointing 2024-25 season, Tottenham are aiming for improvement: a mid-week cup win against Aston Villa and a 2-0 win over Everton sandwiching a heavy 5-1 loss to Manchester City.

Context

Spurs are currently in fifth place in the WSL table and have experienced two wins and one loss so far this season. On the other hand, Leicester City have won only one match and are in eighth position in the league.

For Spurs, winning Sunday’s match against Leicester is vital as a victory would secure a momentary place in the top five – which they can subsequently aim to hold on to. Speaking on the need to win this weekend, Ho said:

“Every game we go into, we want to win, and I don’t see us going into any game and thinking, we’re not going to win this.”

He added:

“Leicester’s the same as every other game. We need to go in with the right mindset. If we do that, we give ourselves a chance of winning.”

Team News

According to Ho, players who have been out with injuries are “coming back in” and “people are back in training properly now”.  For example, Molly Bartrip is “back on the pitch and training well”. Bartrip will, however, miss this weekend’s fixture.

On the contrary, Ahleigh Neville could make her first appearance of the season as she has now recovered from a knock which she picked up during pre-season training.

Ho also answered questions regarding Jess Naz and the racial abuse that she has faced. According to Ho, Naz is doing well. When asked whether Naz wants to take part int his weekend’s fixture, the manager answered:

“I will liaise very closely with Jess, and I have done over the last few days, along with staff leadership, with the club and whatever Jess feels, we will support Jess with that and we’ll see how she is tomorrow.”

Form

Tottenham have had a difficult week: last Friday they lost heavily to Manchester City and on Wednesday their Women’s League Cup match against Aston Villa went to penalties. Spurs ultimately won the shootout. This mix of outcomes has led to “different emotions” but despite these ups and downs the team have “trained really well”.

The head coach does not want his team to dwell on their recent matches and results. Rather, the squad must focus on where they are going. Ho knows that Leicester bring challenges. On what he expects from the Foxes, Ho was pragmatic:

“When you look at the games, they’ve just tied, the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, which is a close contest, they’ve held on, they’ve held numerous chances themselves. They’ve won against Liverpool, even though they went to 10, they still performed really well. They’re well organised, very fruitful defensively, very brave with the ball, and can cause a lot of problems with their front line.”

Leicester being in eighth place in the WSL table could lead to the assumption that they will be an easy side for Spurs to beat. Although, as Ho described Leicester’s recent results have shown what the side can bring; they beat Liverpool despite having a player sent off, suffered a narrow defeat to WSL title holders Chelsea and beat Ipswich Town 5-1 in the Women’s League Cup.

To nullify the threat from Leicester, Spurs will stay “organised behind the ball to try and stop their transitions”. To ensure that this can be achieved, Spurs have focused on ball work and their organisation away from the ball in their recent training sessions.

Difference makers

Leicester’s Olivia McLoughlin is a player to keep an eye on during Sunday’s match. The player signed with the at the start of this month; she’s resilient and gets involved everywhere on the pitch.

Another Fox to look out for is Emily van Egmond. The Australian player scored a lovely header against Liverpool when she was left unmarked near the penalty spot. This goal proved that Leicester will take advantage of any opportunity that they are given to score.

Van Egmond is a strong midfielder who has a range of experience. She is accurate on the ball and creates opportunities for her teammates by providing strong passes from a distance. As she showed against Liverpool, she is also able to score – many of her goals have been shot from a long-range. Her experience also brings experience, which is vital when playing in big WSL matches, like this weekend’s fixture against Spurs.

Spurs’ goalkeeper Lize Kop has been on top form lately and will be ready to stop Leicester’s attack. Kop made two crucial saves during Tottenham’s penalty shootout against Aston Villa. Speaking on Kop’s performance in this match, Ho said:

“She’s a really brave goalkeeper. She’s someone who prides herself on those big moments.”

Against Manchester City, it was Spurs’ Olivia Holdt who scored the North London side’s only goal of the match. Holdt is a promising young midfielder who creates chances and scores goals. With strong technical skills and fast dribbling, Holdt will pose a threat to Leicester on Sunday.

Spurs will face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Sunday at 12pm UK time. The match will be broadcast live on the WSL Youtube channel.

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WSL: Can Brighton defeat injury-hit Everton?

By Alice de Koster-Kitto and Alyce Collett (27/9/25)

Above: Brighton v Everton last season. Photo: Steve Bardens/Getty Images.

The WSL continues this weekend for gameweek three. Following last weekend’s huge win over West Ham, Brighton are feeling confident. Can they hold on to this confidence against a Toffees’ team that can be dangerous? Or will Everton rediscover their opening day form?

Recent form

Brighton and Hove Albion

Brighton & Hove Albion are currently sixth in the WSL, just one place above their opponents, Everton, which is sure to make for a contentious and unpredictable meeting. 

They enter WSL round three on four points, following a massive 4-1 win over West Ham United at Broadfield Stadium last weekend. Despite just two wins over all competitions thus far, Brighton have managed to put on a string of solid performances, while overcoming numerous setbacks and disruptions from an onset of injury in the squad. 

The squad have managed to keep possession and dominance fairly even, and haven’t shied away from creating big opportunities against threatening sides. Their ability to control the game and remain stable on the pitch will certainly pose them as a side to watch this round. 

Everton

It’s been an up and down start to the season for the Toffees.

They could not have gotten their season off to a more perfect start on the opening weekend, beating cross town rivals Liverpool 4-1 and absolutely dominating proceedings after a bit of a slow start to the game.

However things have not gone as well for Everton in recent weeks, first losing 2-0 to Tottenham then losing 2-1 last weekend to the recently promoted London City Lionesses.

They come into this weekend’s league match off the back of a 3-1 midweek loss to Manchester City in the Women’s League Cup.

But with so many new players into the squad this year, it is arguable that the teething issues of connection are in part to blame.

Head to head

Since Brighton’s first season in the WSL back in 2018/19, the Seagulls and Toffees have played each other 14 times. The head to head record is very much in favour of the hosts, with the Seagulls having won six of the matches while Everton have only won four, with four of the matches resulting in draws.

The last time these two sides met was back in April this year and saw Brighton come away with a 3-2 win. After clawing back a draw from the jaws of defeat twice during the match, the Seagulls pinched the goal in second half stoppage time to come away with the win. 

If basing this match prediction on the most recent results, Brighton have been the dominant of the two, in both tactical play and result. However, Everton have put up a fair fight, and could definitely aim to take advantage of their opponents’ recent misfortune.

What the Coaches Said

Brighton

Brighton head coach Dario Vidosic is looking to build on the momentum of the Seagulls’ recent win, following a “well polished performance” against West Ham.

He emphasised the importance of consistency, hoping his side “create that as a habit, to win and to go in with that mentality”. 

“We were a bit unlucky in round one” added Vidosic, as he acknowledged the adversity within the squad, adding “It’s hard to expect everything to be at it’s perfect forward best when we make so many changes”.

“We had players that came in late in the pre season, a few that were recovering from injury so that slowed it down” 

Despite recent losses, Vidosic has emphasised his trust in his squad: “I have a lot of trust in the squad, (there’s) a lot of good depth”. He remains confident the Seagulls can continue to control the game and extend their excellent history against the visitors. 

“We’re confident with whoever’s put out to play will be able to do the job and help us get those three points”.

Everton 

Everton coach Brian Sorenson is fully aware of the challenge that is in front of his team this weekend.

“Brighton are a good team. It looks similar to last season in terms of how they approach things,” Sorenson said. “They are well coached and have brought in good players. Fran Kirby looks very good at the moment, you need to shut that down.”

However, Sorenson’s task will be that much harder than usual this weekend, with two of his most important players unavailable for selection.

“Courtney [Brosnan] is out and Kelly [Gago] is out with a concussion. We have a couple of knocks we are assessing today, but I don’t think it’s anything major,” he confirmed.

Everton are looking to get back on the winners list after three consecutive losses across all competitions.

“I think it was good learning for us against City,” Sorensen said, reflecting on his side’s mid week Women’s League Cup loss to Manchester City.

“If you look at the chances we created, we could have scored a lot more. There was a few lapses of concentration which we need to work on. But, I was happy with the progress.

“On Sunday, we know that we have to get 90 plus minutes right. The effort has to be there all the time. We know we have the skills and tools to do something against them.”

Brighton v Everton kicks off at 12pm UK time on Sunday. The match will be broadcast live on the WSL Youtube channel.

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Renée Slegers: Arsenal need to be consistent

By Isabelle Campbell (26/9/25)

Above: Renée Slegers. Photo: Arsenal FC.

Following being named women’s club of the year at the Ballon d’Or awards earlier this week, Arsenal face a must-win clash with Aston Villa.

Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium this weekend aiming to maintain their defensive solidity after conceding just two goals in the first three WSL games this season. They will face Aston Villa, who inflicted a 5-2 defeat on the Gunners at Villa Park last April.

Villa come into this match following a 0-0 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in the Women’s League Cup on Wednesday, which they eventually lost 7-6 on penalties.

What should fans expect?

Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers emphasised the need for consistency and adaptability.

“We want to be consistently consistent. We need to bring that in every single game, so that’s no different. But we know that we’ll have to bring that on Saturday. We respect Aston Villa.”

Reflecting on last season’s loss, she notes:

“I think teams found ways against us last season. In preparation for that game, you go through different scenarios. We expected them to do something and maybe they didn’t fully do that thing that we expected them to do. Still, it’s on us to find the solutions, but that’s what we always need to keep in the back of our heads. We need to be versatile, flexible. We need to be able to change things because we can expect teams to change things against us.”

Slegers expects Villa to be aggressive and disciplined.

“They have certain strengths in the team. Again, they have a strong belief in how they play. If they will do what we expect them to do, they will be very aggressive against us. We will have to find the solutions.”

“It will be a tough task. It will ask a lot from us, from a presence perspective. Are we technically present? Are we psychologically present in the game? Because we expect to be under pressure and we expect to have to find solutions against Villa on Saturday.”

Team news

Leah Williamson remains unavailable as she continues her recovery from injury, however updates on her progress are expected soon, which could be a boost for Arsenal’s back line.

Slegers was also asked about Jenna Nighswonger. The defender has yet to make an appearance this season. Signed in January 2025, Nighswonger had a strong pre-season, leaving fans and pundits puzzled by her absence: against West Ham, Slegers opted for two goalkeepers in the squad rather than include her. This has drawn criticism – particularly from pundits. Slegers commented that against the Hammers, the decision was tactical:

“All players are performing really well and working really hard in training. Jenna is one of them. We felt like we wanted an extra goalkeeper in that game because of other reasons.”

Pressed further on decisions over team selections, Slegers asserted that she needs to make these decisions, but does not find the process easy.

“When the whole squad is fit, we have so many options. I will only be able to start 11 players and I will only be able to change a maximum of five players.

“That’s the rules within the game that I have to work with, even though it hurts me as well. That’s the rules of the game and at the end of the day it’s my job, so I’ll have to carry that. I’m not saying that I don’t find that hard, but that’s part of it.”

Difference makers

Katie Reid has impressed this season, stepping up confidently in the centre-back position alongside the experienced Steph Catley. Reid’s composure under pressure and ability to read play will be key against Villa’s aggressive attack.

Reid will likely be coming up against Villa forward Ebony Salmon, who has netted Villa’s sole goal so far this season and will be one to watch.

Slegers underlined the importance of flexibility in defence.

“We need to be versatile, flexible. We need to be able to change things because we can expect teams to change things against us.”

“They are aggressive, they are front-footed, they have a lot of physical qualities with speeds up top for example and they look very disciplined as a team.”

Arsenal face Aston Villa at 12pm UK time on Saturday. The match will be broadcast on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Go.

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FIFA Unites: the tournament providing hope for the Afghan women’s refugee team

By Catherine MacKenzie (29/9/25)

Above: The Afghan women’s refugee team led by Pauline Hamill. Photo: FIFA.

In May of this year, FIFA formally approved the Afghan women’s refugee team. Following the Taliban takeover in 2021, women’s sport in Afghanistan – already subject to violent oppression – was increasingly restricted. The progress made by Khalida Popal – from organising intra-school tournaments for girls to working with the government to form the women’s national team – was suddenly under immense threat.

The Afghan women’s team have not taken part in a competitive match since 2018, and in 2021 many of its players fled the country through fear of persecution. Popal, residing in Denmark as a refugee, helped 500 players and their families evacuate the country, using the power of football to unite players with their new communities: “When you lose your home, the pitch becomes your home”

Above: Khalida Popal. Photo: Hummel International.

Encouraging the refugees she helped to continue with their football journey and use it as a way of integrating was paramount for Popal. With a government-sanctioned women’s national team off the table, she worked closely with FIFA to ensure these players – now living across the world – had the chance to continue their national legacy by representing Afghanistan with a national team.

This was the basis for the Afghan women’s refugee team. More than 70 players attended camps in Sydney and London to aim for a spot on the 23-player squad that would be coached by former Scotland international Pauline Hamill. The former winger earned 141 caps for Scotland, and became the first female football coach at Rangers football club when she was appointed to a youth development role in 2003. Accepting the role, Hamill said:

“Every player involved has a story to tell about their personal journey in football, and it’s incredible to be part of something that shows them that their dream and ambitions in football still exist. They’ve had to leave their country, they’ve been displaced as refugees, and now all of a sudden there’s this amazing opportunity to come together in this project. It feels bigger and deeper than anything I’ve done before, and that really excites me.”

Above: Pauline Hamill. Photo: FIFA Website.

That Hamill understands the potential emotional impact of displacement is highlighted in her assertion that the role feels deeper than anything I’ve done before; this compassionate approach will be paramount in achieving success.

What success looks like will likely become clear later. Visibility, connection, and growth are all words that are commonly used to describe the team’s aims, athough for now the team are focusing on enjoying being able to play football. Player Najma Arefi recently spoke about what the opportunity to continue playing football means:

“Everyone loves football, the feeling of being free, the feeling of sisterhood, the feeling of joy – forgetting everything behind and you’re just enjoying it and being in the present. That’s why I kept playing.”

Support for players will not end with the 23 players selected to form the squad: FIFA will provide long-term support to play football in ‘safe and inclusive environments’ for all Afghan players living in exile. This will include access to educational pathways, coaching, and counselling.

FIFA Unites: Women’s Series

The squad recently completed a talent ID camp at St. George’s Park in England, where the England women’s national team train, and have their first tournament on the horizon – FIFA Unites: Women’s Series.

The event will take place in the United Arab Emirates – near enough to Afghanistan that the heat will be familiar but far enough to ensure security. Alongside the Afghanistan women’s refugee team, the UAE, Chad and Libya will take part in a round-robin competition with each team playing three matches.

Above: UAE ( in white) earlier this year. Photo: Handout/PFF-PWNFT.

That the competition will be held in Dubai is unsurprising: whilst the UAE is also an authoritarian country, it is regularly considered the most liberal in the Middle East, and Dubai the most liberal of its seven Emirates.

As the host nation, the UAE – coached by veteran Dutch coach Vera Pauw – will be looking to build on recent progresses, such as the 2023 launch of the Women’s Football League. For Chad and Libya, the tournament will provide an opportunity to further grow and develop their international talent, and provide visibility to promote growth.

For the Afghan contingent, the tournament is an opportunity but by no means a solution. The ongoing discrimination by the Afghanistan Football Association still means the games will not count towards the team’s official global rankings. As player Mursal Sadat says:

“We have already lost the chance to compete in two World Cups, and this will not change that. We urge FIFA and all its Member Associations to take all measures necessary to stop enabling the ongoing gender discrimination against the Afghanistan Women’s National Team, and to use their power to ensure the women and girls still living in Afghanistan are not forgotten.”

The FIFA Unites: Women’s Series tournament is scheduled to kick off on the 23rd October, lasting until the 29th.

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Celtic and Hibs stalemate hands City and Rangers early advantage in title race

Celtic 1-1 Hibernian

By Gethin Thurlow 22/9/25

Above: Linzi Taylor and Amy Gallacher battle for the ball Photo: Cynic Women

Kathleen McGovern and Lisa Rodgers continued their fine seasons as Celtic and Hibs played out an entertaining draw, which saw both teams slip further behind Rangers and Glasgow City in the SWPL.

The Teams

Elena Sadiku opted to stick with the team she has played throughout the season, although Hannah Luke came in for her debut at left back, allowing Lisa Robertson to move into her preferred position of centre midfield. She has covered effectively at left back, alongside Momo Nakao and Natalie Ross in the middle of the pitch Celtic sought to expose Hibs’ two holding players.

Grant Scott named a very strong side, containing lots of the players who played most of that mid-week Inter Milan game. Tegan Bowie came back in on the left, and Eilidh Adams once again started in attacking midfield, behind striker Kathleen McGovern.

The Action

It was indeed that midfield mismatch which defined the game. Celtic’s trio overpowered Grant and Notley, so while Hibs were able to move the ball down the wings, genuine chances evaded them early on and Celtic instead carried the greater threat on the counterattack.

Ross, Nakao and Robertson moved around fluidly in the centre of the pitch, and they were able to take advantage of some sloppy Hibs passes and touches, quickly turning up and the pitch, looking to feed Cross and McAneny on the wings.

It was also clear that Celtic had observed Schumacher’s recent play; long balls, forcing the American to come out of the box were tried a few times. On one such occasion, Schumacher comically ran into defender Linzi Taylor, taking both players out, but luckily for Hibs the ball fell to Hunter who subsequently cleared.

On the ten-minute mark, Celtic’s wingers connected well inside the box, and McAneny’s played a delicate cross into the middle, with Natalie Ross beating Hunter to the ball and blasting her header through the hands of Schumacher.

As Hibs looked to fight back into the game, it was basic errors and miscommunications that let them down. Ciara Grant had a notably frustrating day, with many of her passes finding empty space or being off target. As the half-time whistle blew, it was Sadiku’s side with the advantage, but they could not be entirely happy with the performance.

As the second half developed, Celtic started to dominate the ball a bit more, and even bringing on new signing Jess Fitzgerald could not stop Hibs’ players failing to be on the same page.

Where Hibs did have some success was players making individual dribbles, with Rosie Livingstone, Tegan Bowie and Caley Gibb all moving effectively down the wings and manouvering past many Ghirls’. Lisa Rodgers was always there to make any saves, while Walsh combined well with Clark at the back for Celtic, snuffing out any easy chances for the duo of Adams and McGovern.

With the game heading the hosts way, Grant gave the ball an ugly hack, bouncing high into the box. Neither Clark nor Walsh fully committed to taking responsibility for the clearance, which allowed McGovern to expertly spin through the middle of both players, while switching the ball to her left foot, allowing her to inch the ball low past the oncoming Lisa Rodgers, just catching the inside of the post.

From a relatively weak position, Hibs were back level and this goal suddenly sparked both teams into life. Celtic stopped time wasting and keeping the ball at the back, while Hibs started to believe again.

The introduction of Rachael Boyle at left back really helped inspire this Hibernian response, and she was able to cause Emma Lawton some issues, cutting inside to combine well with Bowie, who preferred to stay wide and provide a crossing threat with er deadly left foot.

Celtic continued to push the ball into the box, and Hibs were fully committed to breaking with speed and direct passing. McGovern found herself running through on goal in the dying seconds, but was denied by a strong and brave Lisa Rodgers, the ball bounced back to Morrison twice, but somehow Rodgers topped her last-second performance versus Hearts here with a triple save.  

Player of the Match Momo Nakao

Nakao was part of that brilliant Celtic midfield which was able to frustrate Hibs’ midfield in a way most others cannot. Regularly winning the ball back, and reading the game well enough to take advantage of Hibernian’s mistakes, Nakao ensured her opponents had to produce moments of magic to get in behind this defence.

She was also a big threat in attack. Hovering towards the left side of the pitch, Linzi Taylor and Caley Gibb were tasked with limiting the threat of the Japanese midfielder as well as winger McAneny, which ultimately proved too much for them.

Often an unsung hero for Celtic, Nakao is not the frequent goalscorer, or an obvious playmaking threat, but in this game she was central to Sadiku’s attacking and defensive plans.

What this means

With Glasgow City and Rangers both winning, it puts each side two points further away from the top. Celtic stay in third place, with 13 points from six games, three behind Rangers and two behind City. However, Glasgow City do have a game in hand. While they will not be fully satisfied with a draw, after a loss in the derby a couple of weeks ago and a nervy win over Aberdeen last time out it was important to avoid a loss in this game.

The top of the table is still within reach, and all teams have shown vulnerability so far. Sadiku’s side look no less able to win the title than anyone else, and this performance showed an ability to play with the lead which they lacked last Sunday.

For Hibs, they are a further three points adrift of Celtic, although they also have a game in hand on the Ghirls and Rangers. It has been a tough start to the season, having to play four European games already, which is more than anyone else, and they have faced better opponents than City did too.

Despite this, they have kept themselves well in the title race and a point on the road against Celtic – having been knocked out of the Europa Cup mid-week – is a very respectable result. While Grant Scott won’t appreciate falling behind Rangers and Glasgow City, he knows all too well of this team’s ability to come from behind in the title race.

Teams Celtic (4-3-3): Rodgers, Lawton, Clark (c), Walsh, Luke, Ross, Robertson, Nakao, Cross, Gallacher, McAneny. Substitutes: Streicek (for Ross 59’), Courter (for Robinson 77’), McGoldrick (for Gallacher 90+1’), Dawson, Gay, Richardson, Tebbett

Scorer: Ross 10’

Hibernian (4-2-3-1): Schumacher, Gibb, L Taylor, Hunter, Papadopoulos, Grant, Notley (c), Livingstone, Adams, Bowie, McGovern. Substitutes: Fitzgerald (for Notley 63’), Boyle (for Papadopoulos 64’), Burchill (for Livingstone 70’), Morrison (for Adams 85’), Armitage, Boughton, Herron, Ramsey, I Taylor

Scorer: McGovern 72’

Referee: Ross Birrell

Attendance: TBH

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