Round 25 delivered drama, late twists, and individual brilliance across every fixture, with fans treated to one of the most entertaining weekends of football this season. Here’s how the action unfolded.
Match of the Round – Mt Druitt Town Rangers 2–3 Sydney Olympic | Popondetta Park
Sydney Olympic secured their place in the league for another year with a nerve-shredding win over Mt Druitt Town Rangers.
The night began disastrously for the visitors when Erin Tavares struck inside two minutes to give the Rangers the lead. Olympic, though, refused to panic. Tiana Fuller drew them level, Baxter Thew edged them ahead, and Alyssa Whinham added a third just before halftime.
Rosie Galea halved the deficit after the interval to give Mt Druitt hope, but Olympic dug deep to protect their advantage until the final whistle — three priceless points that guarantee survival.
NWS Spirit 3–0 Macarthur Rams | Christie Park
NWS Spirit’s faint finals ambitions remain alive thanks to a stunning hat-trick from Skye Halmarick in their win over the Rams.
Bethany Gordon split the defence with a superb lofted pass, and Halmarick controlled beautifully before rifling home the opener. Minutes later she produced the goal of the afternoon, launching an audacious strike from halfway that sailed over the goalkeeper.
The striker then completed her treble in the dying minutes, curling an unstoppable free-kick into the top corner — a performance that will live long in Spirit folklore.
Bulls FC Academy 4–1 Gladesville Ravens | Northbridge Oval
The Bulls roared back into form with a dominant victory over Gladesville Ravens.
Isabella Coco-Di Sipio rose highest at a corner to head the opener, then set up Jynaya Dos Santos for the second soon after. Petria Phillips added a spectacular third from distance to all but put the game to bed within 30 minutes.
The Ravens did respond through Allyssa Ng Saad, who volleyed home after a clever assist from Morgan Roberts, but Coco-Di Sipio struck again almost immediately with another long-range effort. From there, the Bulls calmly saw the game out.
UNSW 3–2 Manly United | The Village Green
UNSW edged a thrilling contest against Manly United in a clash that could define the race for fourth spot.
Aya Yamahata’s powerful header gave UNSW the breakthrough, and Demi Koulizakis made it 2-0 shortly before the break. Manly fought back strongly after halftime — Ruby Jackson scrambled one in from a corner, before Alexia Forner’s free-kick took a wicked deflection to level the scores.
But deep into stoppage time, UNSW found a winner. Chloe Smith pounced on a loose ball in the box in the 97th minute, sealing an unforgettable victory for the home side.
Illawarra Stingrays 2–2 APIA Leichhardt | Macedonia Park
The Stingrays were denied a crucial win right at the death as league leaders APIA salvaged a late draw.
Sienna Saveska’s vicious free-kick had the hosts in front early, but Ashlie Crofts’ clever run and tidy finish brought APIA back on terms. After the break, Caitlin Cooper unleashed a rocket from distance to restore Illawarra’s advantage.
The Stingrays looked set to celebrate three points — until Gisella Pipino’s injury-time header silenced the home crowd and ensured APIA left with a share of the spoils.
Western Sydney Wanderers 0–1 Northern Tigers | Wanderers Football Park
The Tigers prevailed in a scrappy contest thanks to an early goalmouth scramble.
A corner caused chaos for the Wanderers, whose goalkeeper spilled the initial header. In the ensuing mess, the ball ricocheted off a defender before falling kindly for Mischa Anderson to knock in from close range.
That eighth-minute strike proved decisive, as the Tigers successfully absorbed pressure for the remainder of the game to secure the win.
Sydney University 2–1 Newcastle Jets | Sydney Uni Football Ground
Sydney Uni halted their losing streak with a narrow win over bottom-placed Newcastle Jets.
A swift break allowed Tiana Petkovski to slot in the opener, though the Jets equalised after Marni Duggan reacted fastest to a goalkeeper’s spill.
The decisive moment came before halftime, when Charlotte Hogan connected with a clearance on the edge of the box and lashed home a fierce half-volley. The Jets battled gamely but couldn’t find a response, and Uni claimed a valuable three points.
Above: Manchester United celebrate beating PSV. Photo: ManUtdWomen on X.
Dutch champions FC Twente and second-place PSV were both in action on Wednesday evening, in the second round of UWCL qualifiers. PSV had the tougher duel, with England’s Manchester United their opponent, whilst Twente faced Serbian opponents ZFK Crvena zvezda.
Manchester United 4 – 0 PSV
PSV will not be a familiar opponent for many English viewers, however they have become a strong team domestically. Last season in the Eredivisie, they pushed dominant Twente to the last day of the title race, only losing on goal difference. They have experienced internationals in their team, such as the Netherlands’ Renate Jansen, Switzerland’s Riola Xhemaili and Belgian keeper Nicky Evrard.
United have been experimenting with formation in pre-season friendlies, with Leah Galton and Celin Bizet switching sides at points, with the wingbacks pushing very high up the pitch. This trend continued; Swedish Anna Sandberg came in for Gabby George, and Dominique Janssen and Jade Riviere switched places at times as United switched between a back three and a back two.
Lisa Naalsund slotted into midfield alongside Ella Toone and Hinata Miyazawa, and the trio offered a balance that United were missing at times last season. New signing Julia Zigiotti Olme formed the right side of a front three alongside Celin Bizet and Elisabeth Terland.
For PSV, the biggest team news was that veteran keeper Nicky Evrard was on the bench. The 30-year-old has been a strong presence in the PSV backline that only conceded 13 goals in 22 games last season – and with the number of defensive changes in personnel, her exclusion came as a surprise.
United were dominant from the first minute, with Terland opening the scoring in the seventh minute. Bizet made it two before half-time, Terland added a third just after and then a fourth around the hour mark to complete the hattrick.
Above: Elisabeth Terland for Manchester United. Photo: ManUtdWomen on X.
Terland has often put the work in and unselfishly created space in the attacking third for her teammates, so her hattrick was nice to see. Ella Toone also had a hattrick of assists, continuing her stellar form in 2025 and giving head coach Marc Skinner a headache over team selection.
For PSV, their one major chance only served to produce an impressive save from Phallon Tullis-Joyce, as Chimera Ripa used some excellent technical footwork to create a chance for herself. They will have the chance to compete in the Europa league this season, facing Ukranian opposition in WFC Zhytlobud-1 Kharkiv.
For United, a meeting with Hammarby awaits. They are guaranteed European football this season, be it in the UWCL or the new Europa league.
FC Twente 6 – 0 ZFK Crvena zvezda
Whilst many questioned Jill Roord’s move from Manchester City to FC Twente earlier this summer, the Dutch team did offer something City could not: the potential of European football. The reigning Dutch champions were in good form coming into UWCL qualifying, having pipped PSV to the Supercup last weekend, and are under a new manager in Corina Dekker following the successful reign of Joran Pot.
Twente lined up largely as expected, with Roord in the number 10 role behind Jaimy Ravensbergen – last Eredivisie season’s top scorer. Whilst Twente had not been in electrifying goal scoring form during pre-season, there is a relationship developing between the two, which was on display against zvezda.
Above: Jaimy Ravensbergen celebrates. Photo: FCTwenteVrouwen on X.
The first half was relatively slow, with few chances for either side. Twente looked rather disjointed – perhaps to be expected. At times it seemed like the team implsively wanted to get the ball to Roord, regardless of her position or preparedness for the ball. This waned after half-time, and Ravensbergen opened the scoring on the hour mark.
This was followed by a strike from Roord in the 78th minute, and the floodgates opened, with four more goals coming in quick succession from Alieke Tuin, Roord again, Sophie Proost, and Eva Oude Elberink.
Above: Jill Roord celebrates. Photo: Vincent Jannink / Turbantia.
Twente move on to the next round where they will face Iceland’s Breioablik Kopavogur, whilst zvezda face the Irish Athlone Town FC for a spot in the Europa league.
Above: The Player Edition Nike boot designed with Sam Kerr.
Sam Kerr has joined some of the world’s greatest athletes in having her own Nike shoe. The football boot, a player edition of the Mercurial Superfly 10.
The boot design is a tribute to Sam’s journey as a professional footballer, showcasing the unique attitude she brings to the pitch, and her enduring love for Perth and her roots.
“Through the creation process it was always important that the boot should tell my story,” Kerr said through Nike.
“How this kid from East Fremantle got this far following her dreams.
“The colours of the boot are what I think of when I think of home – Perth’s ocean and sunsets. It’s a reminder of where I’m from,” she continued.
The boot is adorned with messaging personal to Australia’s record goal scorer. “Consistent” for her mantra, “Perth Swagger” for a nod to her hometown’s unique identity and “Forever Forward” for her on-pitch position.
It also includes numbers like “2009” for her debut year with the Matildas, “Golden in 2017” for her first golden boot, and “2020 for the Blues” as a celebration of Chelsea’s landmark campaign.
Each boot will also feature Kerr’s signature on the heel and the design is a nod to one of her sporting idols. They feature a stripe down the toe to evoke Cathy Freeman’s famous body suit of the Sydney Olympics and the number “2000” at the top of the stripe.
The timing of the boots release could not have come better, with Kerr preparing to return from a long-term knee injury and begin the quest for another WSL title with Chelsea.
With her return to the Australian national team hopefully imminent, Matildas fans could be seeing Kerr scoring in her personalised Mercurial 10’s in the forthcoming games against Wales.
It also marks another big moment in women’s football, with a personalised boot almost unheard of when Kerr made her debut for the national team. With specialised women’s boots becoming more common, and participation in Australia continuing to grow, it feels fitting that our most successful individual player has her own personalised Nike boot.
Above: Hibernian captain Rachael Boyle scores for Hibernian. Photo: HibernianWomen on X.
Glasgow City 0-2 Austria Wien
Two moments of quality saw Austria Wien move past Glasgow in a tight game.
Both teams imposed themselves on the game in the first half, with possession and chances shared pretty evenly between the two teams. Neither of them could find the back of the net, and it was clear that it would take a moment of great quality to open the scoring. For the group hosts, that moment came early in the second half, with Katharina Schiechtl whipping a free kick past Lee Gibson in the Glasgow goal.
Glasgow did push for the equaliser, although they were never quite on top of their opponents as much as they needed to be. Sofia Maatta and Emily Whelan were both inches away from the scoring, but the other goal of the game was to be scored Maria Olsen of Austria Wien in injury time to secure the result.
Above: Glasgow City thank their fans post-match. Photo: GlasgowCityFC on X.
For Austria Wien, they go on to a tie against FC Minsk to put them through into the third round of qualifying for the Champions League. For Glasgow City, they go straight into the first round of qualifying for the Europa Cup, which is a new second tier European competition. This is because they were only drawn into a group of three and thus there is no ‘loser’ from the first game to play to determine that third place.
Fortuna Hjorring 2-1 Hibernian
Goalkeeping errors proved costly as Fortuna snuck past Scottish Champions Hibs in a game were neither team showcased the performances that won them the subsequent league titles.
Above: Hibernian’s starting 11. Photo: HibernianWomen on X.
The first five minutes gave an indication of how the game was going to go. After a huge miscommunication at the back, Andreea Paraluta in the Fortuna Hjorring goal was caught on the ball by Rosie Livingstone, leaving the keeper no choice but to take her out and a penalty was given. The ever-reliable Kathleen McGovern stepped up and looked to have put Hibs in front with a nice powerful shot towards the top left corner. However, Paraluta redeemed herself with a fantastic save to push it over the bar.
From the ensuing corner – as unbelievable as it sounds – Omewa Ogochukwu was played in behind the defence, and Noa Schumacher in goal for Hibs misjudged the situation, allowing Ugochuckwu to dribble past her. As the only option left, Schumacher rugby tackled the Nigerian striker to the ground and it was now a Fortuna penalty.
It is worth saying that this was much worse of an offence, denying a clear goalscoring opportunity and there was clearly no effort to play the ball – she was lucky to escape a red card. Ugochuckwo only went and blasted the ball over the bar after all of that drama to somehow leave the game 0-0.
Although it was played at night, the temperatures were 27 degrees Celsuis in Cyrpus and this massively affected the game. Neither team looked at their best, with no flow of possession ever being created. The whistle was blown a lot and no one put their mark of the game.
Hibs came out rejuvenated in the second half, partly because of the introduction of Caley Gibb, who defended brilliantly and provided most of Hibs’ attacking threat from the right back position. Indeed it was her work on the wing and cross which eventually found its was to Rachael Boyle, who put it home for her first goal in 934 days. This really settled Hibs and they started the take control of the game and were looking secure in their lead.
However, this game was never simple or predictable so when Ashley Reifner put a ball in to the edge of the box, Ugochuckwu beat the defence to get their first, but she was so far out that surely the keeper would easily save it. Noa Schumacher unfortunately has misread the cross and came sprinting out of her line, attempting to punch the ball away and thus when she didn’t reach it the ball was free to slowly roll in. If she had just stayed back it would have been an easy claim.
As both teams toiled even further, the game felt like it was going to penalties. Neither team seemed to have enough in them to string any passes or an attack together even in 30 minutes of extra time.
As time ran out, Schumacher did well to save a great long shot from Fortuna and the Danish side had a late corner. It was a great ball in from Nikoline Nielsen, but what defined the goal was another error rather than that skill. Clearly wanting to assert herself back into the game, Schumacher jumped and got a hand on the ball. As unlucky as it was for her, instead of punching the ball over, she ended up punching it straight into the goal, ultimately sealing the fate of her team.
Fortuna Hjorring go on to face Swiss side Young Boys, who beat Apollen 1-0 in an unconvincing win earlier on Sunday. Should they get past them, they will enter round three Champions League qualifying, but they can solace in the fact that if they lose Europe is still on the horizon as they will go into round two qualifying for the Europa cup.
Hibernian will face Apollen on Saturday, aiming to come third in the group and at least gain entry to round one of Europa Cup qualification.
Above: Matilda Böhm (azure shirt) puts in a tackle against Balcatta Etna during the month. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
28/8/25
We’ve assembled a group of people who are watching the competition’s matches especially closely to identify the league’s most consistent players each month. For August, Ben Gilby, Kelechi Osunwa, and Tommy Doleman produced a shortlist of players, from which the winner was selected.
The shortlist
Cate McAuliffe (Football West Academy)
Above: Cate McAuliffe (facing camera) – has been superb for the Football West Academy this month. Photo: U18sNPL
The Football West Academy has confirmed a spot in the top four after a tough month that has seen them overcome a backlog of matches due to their participation in the Young Matildas Championships in New South Wales and the weather, which necessitated the rearranging of their State Cup Semi-Final with Fremantle City.
Whilst results haven’t gone the way the teenage side would have liked during August, with the exception of an impressive win over Perth RedStar, Cate McAuliffe has been a real standout throughout the games.
The midfielder scored three times (against Fremantle City in the State Cup semi plus league strikes against Murdoch University Melville and Perth RedStar) and was a hugely influential presence in her side’s ever dangerous attack as evidenced by her superb assist for Lacey Heys’ opening goal at Perth SC in Round 21.
Whilst dropped points put a major spanner in the works of their hopes of a top two finish, it has been a strong month for McAuliffe, and her side will be confident of defeating anyone during the Top Four Cup.
Jess Flannery (Perth SC)
Above: Jess Flannery (azure shirt) looks up as she breaks through against the Football West Academy in Round 21. Photo: Rob Lizzi.
The June winner of the Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month award has had another strong set of performances in August.
Flannery caught the eye with an intelligent performance at Perth RedStar, where she was not only a key part of the attack, but also got back to support her defence in the second half when RedStar began to put the pressure on in a crucial game in the championship race.
Across the month, her runs into space, support to her teammates, and devastating attacking play have marked her out as a real danger player.
The attacker has been on target twice during the month in her side’s wins over Subiaco and Balcatta Etna.
Leyna Wood (Fremantle City)
Above: Leyna Wood (black shirt) in action at Subiaco earlier this season. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
It is a second consecutive nomination for Fremantle City’s American attacker, who has been a key part of her side’s push for a place in the Top Four.
Once well-adrift of the leading clubs, Freo embarked on a superb run of results which had them breathing down Balcatta Etna’s neck for that last spot in the September action, as well as clinching a State Cup Final slot against Pete Rakic’s side this coming weekend.
Wood has become a major handful for the league’s defenders, and added five goals to her tally during the month following braces against Perth RedStar and UWA-Nedlands, with the other strike coming against Subiaco.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month for August 2025:
Matilda Böhm (Perth SC)
Above: Matilda Böhm – Impetus‘ NPLW WA Player of the Month for August. Photo: Denyse RM Photography.
Matilda Böhm has had an outstanding month. Part of a Perth SC defence that has only conceded 14 league goals all season, the German is not only a key part of the Azzurri‘s brick wall, but she has such cultured footwork that brings those in front of her into the game.
Bohm’s brilliance has been seen in the month’s big games against fellow top four sides Perth RedStar, the Football West Academy, and Balcatta Etna, where her side earned 10 points from a possible 12 that ensured they clinched a first-ever NPLW WA championship.
On the money perfectly weighted passes that dissected opponents’ midfield to play in her team’s attackers were crucial aspects in Perth’s unbeaten run during the month, as well as her continued strength in defending.
Impetus NPLW WA Player of the Month Roll of Honour 2025 season
Above: Princess Ibini lifts the 2023-24 A-League Women Championship Trophy. Image: Kris Goman for Impetus.
By Genevieve Henry (28/8/25).
One of the greatest Sky Blue and A-League Women players of all time in Princess Ibini is departing Sydney FC for an unnamed overseas opportunity. Her absence will be mourned as head coach Ante Juric called her the “heart and soul of Sydney for the past ten years.”
At just 25 years of age, Ibini will leave as the most capped Sydney Women’s player of all time with 163 appearances. She holds many impressive records, including being the only player–man or woman– to appear in 8 Grand Finals. Her honours include three Championships (2018–19, 2022–23, 2023–24) and three Premierships (2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23), as well as being part of the first A-League All Stars Women Team in 2024. She was also recognised when she was awarded the Sydney FC Rising Star Award in 2018–19.
Her 31 goals certainly paint a good picture of her contribution, but do little to represent the full story of her time in Sky Blue. Ibini’s presence as a leader on and off the field have been vital during the continuous changeover of players, providing a constant presence.
“She’s a fierce competitor, a wonderful teammate and has contributed massively to our success with her goals, assists, and leadership,” said Juric, who expressed nothing but gratitude and pride to see her take this next step.
Ibini started her career as a 15 year-old, making her debut in Canberra in 2015. After a decade with her hometown club, it’s finally her time to embark on a new adventure.
Above: Ibini during one of many ALW appearances in Sky Blue. Image: Sydney FC.
“I’m so thankful to Sydney FC for believing in me as a 15-year-old and giving me the chance to live out my dream,” Ibini said. “It’s been an incredible journey — to play so many games, win so many trophies, and to make friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Juric has seen Ibini grow immensely over the years and was full of praise for the striker. “Princess has been the heart and soul of Sydney FC for the last ten seasons,” he said. “She joined us as a young teenager and grew into one of the most consistent and reliable players this league has seen.”
For fans of the A-League Women, Ibini will be sorely missed. She has been not just a star, but a staple of the league for so long that many cannot imagine the league without her. But, as the ALW has often been seen as a jumping off point, most will be thrilled to see her ply her trade abroad. Juric’s thoughts likely reflect the group sentiment of the entirety of the Australian women’s football community, saying, “We’ll miss her dearly, but we’re incredibly proud to see her take this next step.”
“This club will always have a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.” Ibini continued, “Wearing the Sky Blue shirt has been one of the greatest honours of my life, and I leave full of pride in everything we’ve achieved together.
Above: Dominique Janssen for the Netherlands national team. Photo: @oranjevrouwen on X.
After a summer packed with international tournaments, club football takes center stage again. This year, Manchester United aim to build on just their second-ever top-three WSL finish. Ahead of the 2025–26 season kicking off on September 6th, Impetus Football’s Catherine MacKenzie sat down with United and Netherlands defender (and occasional midfielder) Dominique Janssen.
So I thought I would just start by just asking how you are. You’ve been in Manchester at United now, for a year. So how that’s been?
DJ: Now first of all I am doing good, it has been a good pre-season so far. Gradually trying to just get, you know, started on the real work, with the Champions League qualifications coming up next week, so that’s that’s very exciting. I’ve been here now for one year, I think time just generally flies. Even though there are always times where you feel that you have a bit of a tough time, it’s normal, you know, moving away to a new country.
But obviously I’ve done it before, but I mean moving here just building your life again. It’s you know, once you get older your values are more and more to have the right people around you. But yeah I settled in well and I’m just really looking forward now to the next season. I just think it’s crazy. How quick the time goes and that now already one another great season is done and we go into the next games into the next season again.
I was reading up and you were at Wolfsburg for five years. What’s the transition been like, and have you noticed a load of changes within the standard of the WSL?
DJ: Yeah, generally, I just feel like the attention. You know, for the games and the media attention has grown massively like obviously England is a country made for football. So it’s just really fun to see that they keep those standards high obviously. It’s nice that everyone gets a lot of exposure. Um, and of course, when the national team is being successful this year again, that’s a massive push for the league as well. So it’s nice to see that.
It’s just been pushing forward and we want to generally push forward in the women’s game and I think it’s important that it comes with success. England’s having some successes and you can see how many people want to go to England and play in the English league. Now again, how many big players are coming to the WSL? It shows that everyone wants to play here. Everyone wants to compete here. Everyone wants to get some prizes here.
I was actually going to ask about that because there’s a lot of Dutch players in the league. What do you think makes Dutch players fit in so well, because you came across and you seemed to seamlessly kind of fit in and I know you had prior experience in England, but we’re seeing the same with other Dutch players.They come in and it just seems like they’ve always been here. Do you think there’s something special within like the two countries, how we both perceive football or styles of play?
DJ: I just think generally we as Dutch people, we are very good at adjusting because we are a small country. Obviously, we are close to Germany, Belgium. Most of the people can speak a little bit of German, because we’re so close to the German borders. Then we all can speak very well English. So when people go to a country, you know, I think that we are just very flexible and we’re really good at adjusting and just want to really get to know the culture the country that we are in. So I think that’s also what makes it easy.
And and also we as Dutch people, I think the development that we have – we want to play football. So I think the English style of football is maybe different than the Dutch style but because we learn to play football very technically from when we are young, that obviously helps. When you go to a league where the speed is going to be higher than in the Dutch League, for example. I think that’s also one of the reasons why so many people just come here and they adjust so easily. So I think it’s really, you know, nice to see that and nice to hear as well that you’re saying. It seems like you guys just come in and it seems like you’ve never been anywhere else. Yeah, so I just take that as a compliment.
And I was just going to ask about the Bundesliga as well. Uh, kind of how that compares to the WSL. Not which one is better, but kind of any similarities or major differences between between the two leagues.
DJ: I also think it depends on what team you play for. Because I remember when I was playing at Wolfsburg, we are most of the times the favourites, because Wolfsburg won so many prizes in Germany.. You have everything to lose and you just want to win every single game because that’s the standard there is. Um, we just had a lot of the ball there attacking a lot. You’re the favourite in every game. And here in England it’s….if you’re playing for a big club, even if you play for Chelsea, or even Arsenal, and for us Man United…everyone wants to beat you and you have so many good teams that even the, I guess the top four with Man City or Chelsea, we we all want to beat each other as well.
We all want to become Champions so there’s so much competition going on and if you compare it to Germany, I think now as well they are improving. Like there are more teams that also stepping up at this point and making it the big teams difficult. In England, it is like if you have one bad day, you can even, you know, lose against or drop points against maybe someone that’s about to relegate. And I think that’s just a massive difference if you just compare it to the German league and the and the WSL.
It’s like I still think that they are also at a really good level because the WSL, I noticed that I feel like it’s way more physical. There is way more speed involved and that’s like a very important aspect. Germany obviously is also yeah it’s important that you know your physical and stuff but I don’t know, I feel like the attention is way more on that here in England than it was in Germany.
Above: Janssen at Wolfsburg. Photo: Wolfsburg website.
I was gonna ask if it’s different because when you were with Wolfsburg, like you said, you’re the favourites.So you kind of have Wolfsburg and Bayern always competing for first. Now you’ve got challengers, you’ve got Frankfurt coming in sometimes challenging. United are very much one of the challengers, like, you’re always pushing Chelsea. Is that a different mindset, like is that a different way of thinking about things?
DJ: Uh yeah I think that’s definitely different. You know, like you said in Germany, if you have one team that you really have to beat, you know, you have to do your job every single week, but then it’s important that when you play for example, Bayern Munich, you have to make sure you win that game because that could be a decider. And England is just completely different because you have so many top teams and I was… well, even London City Lionesses is coming up, but seeing what type of players they are signing….Yeah, I think it was very interesting to see how this is gonna go because they can also be a surprising team and just make teams, you know, have a hard time.
So I think that’s the very exciting part and that’s also what draws so many players to England. Because even if you play for, let’s say Aston Villa, where I know some Dutch players, or the London City Lionesses or whatever, those teams can still surprise and get some points off you. Yeah but I think that’s just very exciting.
Uh I have to let you go in a minute, but I just wanted to ask about preseason, how important is it. And I know that you are a big advocate of well-being and looking after your well-being. So how important is it ahead of a new season? Kind of how to get your yourself ready?
DJ: Yeah, I think now it’s extra challenging because obviously we had the Euros and players are having less time off, you know, to really switch off than if you just don’t have a big tournament in the summer. But I think the club has been pretty good. They have been giving us all some some time off which after a big tournament after being away for so many weeks with the with the national team. I think it’s important that you you have some time to just switch off and just do whatever feels good for you in the moment.
If you’re, you know, if you go to the Euros, it’s every day. You just have to go go and there’s not really time to think or not really time to rest. Um, personally, to be honest, I decided this time also after the Euros to just stay at home, just be at my mom’s place. And just every day, I just felt like, okay, today this feels good to to do for me. So I’m gonna do this, but maybe another day I plan to do something another day I plan to do nothing.
So for me, it was just very important to just do whatever felt right in the moment, because there are so many emotions, so many things happening in your head and you just need to really be able to switch off where after, having two weeks off. This point where you feel like, okay now is the right time to go again. Um, so that was that was a nice feeling because sometimes you feel like, okay, I’m never gonna be ready to start a whole new season all over again. But you need the time to be able to switch off to then get that new energy and actually get that new excitement to start another season because if I think about it I’m 30. Now I’ve had 12 seasons behind me in professional level and that’s actually insane if you think about it.
Above: Janssen started all three of the Netherlands’ games at WEURO2025. Above against England. Photo: Oranje website.
You left the Netherlands, when you were, I looked it up. I think you were 17. So you were very young when you started playing for Essen.
DJ: I was 18 yeah.
Wow. One, two more questions actually quickly. What do you do to switch off?
DJ: Um, if we’re talking about the importance of switching off, Um, well, this time I decided to spend loads of time with uh, with my family. I spend lots of time with my mum. I spent lots of time with my, my brother and my sister and their kids. Their kids are amazing. And so it’s nice to just play with them and just be a little bit yourself basically. So um just trying to fulfil my auntie duties because obviously I’m not uh there so often. I was really enjoying it, so that gives me a lot of energy and a lot of you know, time to switch over, not think about football. Um, so that was for me this summer really, really nice. To have so much time with them and just really enjoy it.
And then, lastly, I’m going to be sneaky and quickly ask about your book because I know that you wrote a bookwith your sister. Um, can I ask whether there’s any plans to translate into English at all?
DJ: Um, well, it started off as a really good idea, I think. And then we did it, but I feel like we haven’t pushed it as much as we wanted to. So we’re just trying to figure everything out. What we want to do before actually seeing if we want to expand it. Yeah, yeah, so that’s something that’s for now. It’s sort of on a hold. You know, you never know what’s going to happen in the future, so maybe one day we will, of course.
Well, thank you so much for talking to me. Sorry, I couldn’t be there in person. I really wanted to be.
DJ: That’s fine. Thank you as well.
Manchester United kick off their WSL campaign at home to Leicester City on Saturday 5th September.
Manchester United face Dutch opposition as they open their European campaign, facing PSV Eindhoven in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL).
United managed a third-place finish in the 2024-25 WSL season, meaning they enter UWCL qualifying in the second round. They have a huge chance to reach the competition proper for the first time, but face tough Dutch opposition in a side that pushed FC Twente to the final day of last season’s Eredivisie title race. Whilst they eventually lost out on goal difference, PSV’s record in the 2024-25 season was impressive.
Although it is difficult to compare across leagues due to the difference in competitiveness and strength of the opposition, comparing PSV and United in terms of goals scored and goals conceded ends in two wins for the Dutch team. Whilst United conceded 16 and scored 41 in 22 games, PSV conceded 13 and scored 58 in the same number of games.
A deeper statistical comparison isn’t possible, as far less data is available for the Eredivisie. While United’s numbers are clear (2.8 big chances and 13.3 shots per game), there’s little equivalent data to measure against.
PSV in the UWCL
Their first appearance in the UWCL was in the 2020–21 season, after finishing second in the league. They entered in the qualifying rounds and reached the Round of 32, where they were eliminated by FC Barcelona 8-2 on aggregate. In 2021-22, they were eliminated 3-1 by Arsenal, and did not qualify again until this season, finishing second in the league, behind FC Twente on goal difference.
PSV are generally a tough team to break down: their style of play emphasizes compact defending and quick transitions, making them dangerous on the counter. In the Eredivisie, they often line up in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, pressing high and using wide players to stretch opponents. In their previouus UWCL forays, they have tended to sit a lot deeper, but it will be interesting to see how they face United.
Players to watch
PSV have been dealt a huge blow this season, with captain Gwyneth Hendriks out for the rest of the year with an ACL injury. They are also missing Veerle Buurman, who completed her transfer to Chelsea this summer – the teenager had a standout season last time out, which led to her becoming a consistent starter for the Netherlands national team.
Whilst missing players defensively, PSV have a range of options in attack. There is the experienced Netherlands international Renate Jansen – the 34 year old scored 13 goals in 22 league games last season. On the wing, there is the 22 year old Swiss International Riola Xhemaili, who scored 10 goals last season and stood out during the European Championships this summer.
In January, PSV acquired Fenna Kalma from VfL Wolfsburg, bringing the Dutch player back to the Eredivisie. She was the first player to score 30 goals in a single Eredivise season (for FC Twente), and has experience of the UWCL from her time with the German side.
PSV Technical Manager Maud Roetgering has lauded Kalma’s attacking talent: “She has proven time and again how effective she is. Her shots rarely miss the target and she is also a constant threat in the air. We are enormously looking forward to seeing her in action.”
Above: Fenna Kalma for PSV. Photo: Vrouwen Eredivise website.
Manchester United in the UWCL
United have the chance to get through UWCL qualifying for the first time – their only previous experience in Europe’s top competition came in 2023, when they lost their qualifying two-legged tie against PSG 4-2 on aggregate. Asked in his pre-match press conference how his team have changed since their previous qualifying campaign, United head coach Marc Skinner suggested experience will be key for the Red Devils: “I have no doubt we will be more prepared in terms of experience,” adding that “I believe in this group of people”.
Players to watch
Ella Toone is in electric form following her return from injury earlier this year. The midfielder scored five goals and notched two assists in the second half of the league season, alongside two goals and two assists in England’s triumphant Euros campaign. With a hattrick against Manchester City and a brace for England in a friendly against Jamaica, Toone is on fine form heading into the UWCL qualifiers.
United have had a quiet summer transfer window, with only two incomings – Swedish internationals Fridolina Rolfö and Julia Zigiotti Olme. The duo regularly play together for Sweden, and it will be interesting to see if their existing relationship on the pitch can be utilised by United. In addition, both are experienced in the UWCL – Rolfö even scored the winning goal in a UWCL final, securing the title for FC Barcelona against former club VfL Wolfsburg in 2023.
Speaking about Rolfö, Skinner said: “She has the quality not only with the ball but off the ball as well to do exactly what we want of her, so we see her as an attacking threat and one that we are looking forward to unleashing.”
Above: Fridolina Rolfö for FC Barcelona. Photo: FridolinaRolfo on X.
Prediction
It is always difficult to predict such fixtures because of the lack of concrete data from the Eredivise. On paper, United have the stronger team and should be able to win with relative ease, particularly given the changes to PSV’s backline. However, PSV tend to be well organised and pose an offensive threat; they have the potential to pose an upset.
Manchester United v PSV takes place on Wednesday 27th August 2025 at 11:00 BST, in Stockholm, Sweden. It will be broadcast on MUTV.
Above: FV Academy celebrate their second goal against Boroondara-Carey Eagles
FV Academy won their fourth game of the season with a 3-1 result against Boroondars-Carey Eagles. A virtuoso performance from Poppy O’Keefe, first half brace to Jasmine Millar and Emily Rutkowski’s late goal decided the game.
In front of Matildas senior coach Joe Montemurro, and just days after a midweek match against Spring Hills FC, FV Academy put on their best performance of 2025.
Despite the absences of key attacking stars like Kaya Jugovic and Clancy Westaway, they controlled the majority of the match against tough opposition and scored three past Matildas and A-League Women legend Melissa Barbieri.
The itent was clear from the outset. FV Academy pressed hard, moved the ball quickly and remained organised despite the relentless pace they had set.
Fiorina Iaria enjoyed plenty of space on the left, and used it to menace the Boroondara defence. Her early run and shot helped set the tone.
Chelsea Biggs joined Poppy O’Keeffe in midfield and the pair controlled the game. O’Keeffe was busy throughout as she pulled the strings for most of th FV Academy’s best moves, and Biggs was able to get forward and help the attack.
The opening goal came in just the 14th minute, when Millar nodded home the rebound from close range following excellent, composed buildup play through midfield. ‘
Emily Rutkowski put in another excellent performance, joining fellow Melbourne Victory youth player O’Keeffe in making yet another strong case for elevation to a senior A-League squad.
Rutkowski’s linked up with Iaria to create another great opportunity, but Boroondara were able to clear the lines temporarily.
O’Keeffe’s driving run and well-weighted pass set up FV Academy’s second goal. Millar timed her run well, but still had plenty to fo and cut inside the last defender to finish beyond Barbieri right before half time.
FV Academy began the second half in the same style as the first. Once again, a long, threatening run from Iaria almost resulted in a goal, but the finish was just slightly too wide.
Boroondara eventually grew into the game and gave themselves a lifeline through Saki Nagai’s 63rd minute finish. A rare error in defending a set piece gave her the chance and she grabbed it to bring the scorte back to 2-1.
Buoyed by that goal, Boroondara began to apply pressure to the FV Academy defenders and forward Rachel Stirton became more involved. With The Eagles hunting for an equaliser, Charlotte Hrehoresin was called into action, making an excellent and game changing stop when a goal looked likely.
To their credit, FV Academy did not break under pressure and regained control of the match. O’Keeffe’s sliding tackle and calm forward pass best epitomised and encapsulated the team’s performance. They were all willing to put in the gritty work but also showed class when they won the ball.
Jasmine Millar remained hatrick hunting, but her shots could not beat Barbieri and Rutkowski’s back post finish put the game to bed in the 87th minute. It was the versatile fullback’s third goal of the season and the perfect way to cap off another excellent performance.
FV Academy play their final game net week against Bentleigh Greens, and will hope to end on another high before the program closes down and A-League clubs form their own NPLW sides. Despite the struggles of running a state federation academy, they have routinely produced high quality players and have always been compulsory watching each season.
In Round 21 of the 2025 NPLW season, they put in a performance that every player who has come through the program would have been proud of and yet another reminder of what the states best youngsters are capable of at senior level.
Joe Montemurro would have been impressed.
Around The Grounds
FV’s midweek opponents Spring Hills FC had a much tougher weekend. They travelled to face the in-form and still improving Box Hill United.
A 57th minute goal to Josephine Aulicino was all that separated the sides on the scoresheet. But even with returning U23 International Sofia Sakalis on the bench, Box Hill were in control for most of this game.
Rhianna Pollicina was once again a standout performer for the Victors, but it was rising star Georgia Karaparidis who proved too much to handle. The winger’s tricky footwork and shot off the post provided Aulicino with an easy finish in the second half.
Bulleen Lions four goal game rained on Heidelberg United’s victory parade.
Water is wet, the sun rises in the East and Bulleen are a threat from set pieces are just three laws of nature.
Isabel Dehakiz opened the scoring for Bulleen from a corner in the 10th minute and an excellent solo effort from Ava Briedis doubled the advantage.
Dehakiz scored a second from another corner to make it 3-0 in the second half, before Sawa Matsuda pulled one back for Heidelberg with a brave header.
A comeback looked unlikely with Bulleen really needing the win to secure second place on the table, and any doubt was put to rest when Holly Massie took full advantage of a defensive error to make it 4-1.
Olivia Wood’s first half goal looked to be a sign on Essendon Royals continued late season surge, but South Melbourne rallied in the second half and ended the round as 2-1 winners thanks to Olivia Bomford’s equaliser and a late winner from Raquel Derales.
South Melbourne cannot make the top four but sent a reminder that The Royals can be beaten despite their imposing recent form.
The loss sees Essendon drop from a possible second to fourth.
Rebecca Saber returned to haunt her former club with a brace for Bentleigh Greens against Alamein FC.
Anna Liacopoulos conceded an own goal for Bentleigh’s third with Maximillia scoring a second half equaliser for Alamein.
Brunswick Juventus and Preston Lions walked away with a 0-0 draw in the only scoreless game of the round.
Brunswick now face the challenge of playing Bulleen in the final game of the season and will hope to end a difficult campaign on a high note in Round 22.
Round 24 delivered statement wins, late drama, and a finals picture that got a little sharper—and a little messier. Here’s how it all unfolded.
Match of the Round — Manly United 2–0 Illawarra Stingrays (Cromer Park)
This was a must-win for Manly and they played it like one. After an even first half, the hosts leaned into set-piece quality and front-foot pressure. Sienna Dale’s 53rd-minute header—attacking a wicked free-kick—was the payoff for a spell where Manly pinned the Stingrays back and forced mistakes. Alexia Forner then split the game open late with a clever early ball in behind, letting Tegan Biasi ice it on 86’.
Tactically, Manly were compact between the lines and denied Stingrays the central combinations they’ve thrived on. Brianna Edwards made saves to keep the visitors alive, but Manly’s discipline and speed in transition were the difference. A proper “season-on-the-line” performance that keeps their finals push real; a stumble for the Rays when they could least afford one.
Macarthur Rams 4–2 Bulls FC Academy (Lynwood Park)
A wild second half, and a reminder that Lynwood can swallow you whole if you switch off. Rams went from cagey to ruthless after the break: Sakura Nojima and Lola Sossai landed a one-two to make it 2–0, Nojima added a third late, and even a penalty from Isabella Coco-Di Sipio plus a stoppage-time spark from Jynaya Dos Santos couldn’t flip the momentum. Tea Mucenski’s dagger settled it at 4–2.
Big takeaway: Macarthur’s press and directness rattled the Bulls’ build, and the Rams’ senior heads managed the chaos better. For the Bulls, it’s a reality check for a top-two side that’s been flying.
Northern Tigers 0–2 NWS Spirit (North Turramurra)
Spirit arrived with nothing to lose and played with exactly that freedom. Bethany Gordon dictated tempo and delivered the pass of the night—an arcing ball for Skye Halmarick’s composed opener on 13’. The second came from Gordon’s set-piece craft, forced over the line via an own goal on 77’.
Credit to Tiahna Robertson for a huge first-half save on Lily McMahon that preserved the platform. For Tigers, plenty of grit but not enough incision in the final third; for Spirit, a clinical away job that keeps them humming as spoilers in the run-in.
Sydney Olympic 0–3 APIA Leichhardt (Valentine Sports Park)
This was the APIA machine in familiar, ruthless mode. Teal Kilbride poached the opener from a corner scramble (36’), then a trademark set-piece routine freed Ashlie Crofts for a near-post bullet (70’). Crofts doubled up three minutes later after Sophie Hoban pounced on a loose clearance and fed her nine.
APIA’s set-piece threat is basically a weekly cheat code, but their control without the ball is just as impressive—compressing space, forcing turnovers, striking from rehearsed patterns. Olympic’s revival earlier this season has stalled; APIA look every inch a title contender on form alone.
Western Sydney Wanderers 2–2 Mt Druitt Town Rangers (Wanderers Football Park)
A game that said plenty about both sides. Rangers were on top early and got their reward via Ena Harada’s skidding free-kick (45+3’). Wanderers answered after the break—Nikkita Fazzari reacting quickest after a sharp initial save (67’)—before Rosaria Galea won and buried a penalty to restore Rangers’ lead (73’).
Then came the sting: Isabella Sultan smacked a free-kick off the post and Olivia Vanderlaan roofed the rebound in stoppage time. A point that Wanderers richly earned with second-half energy; for Rangers, it’s two dropped in a tight top-four race.
Newcastle Jets 1–2 UNSW (Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility)
UNSW showed top-four steel. Angelique Hristodoulou capitalised on an early error for 1–0 (5’), Alexis Collins equalised with a savvy chip after timing her run to perfection (39’), and then came the late-late punch: down to ten after Aaliyah Kilroy’s second yellow (89’), UNSW strung together a rapid restart sequence that ended with Chloe Smith tapping home at the near post (90+1’).
That’s big-game temperament—recovering from the red, then landing the last blow. The Jets’ counterpunching was lively, but UNSW’s poise in chaos keeps them right in the hunt.
Gladesville Ravens 3–1 Sydney University (Christie Park)
Ravens were efficient and then some. Allyssa Ng Saad finished off an early route-one break (10’), Morgan Roberts produced the strike of the round with a disguised “cross” that dipped into the far corner (35’), and Roberts added a stoppage-time tap-in from Eliza Familton’s persistence (90+1’). Maddie Caspers grabbed a late consolation (90+2’) but the points were long gone.
Ravens looked fast, direct, and ruthless on turnovers—an encouraging template to carry into 2026. Uni had moments but were punished whenever their last line stretched.
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