Chelsea and Arsenal Start WSL Season with Dominant Wins

The 2025-26 Women’s Super League (WSL) season commenced with exciting performances from both Chelsea and Arsenal, as the reigning champions and the European titleholders showcased their ambitions. Chelsea continued their impressive form from last season, securing a 2-1 victory against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge, while Arsenal rebounded from an early deficit to defeat London City Lionesses 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium.

Chelsea’s dominance was evident right from the outset. The team, which achieved a domestic treble last season without a single defeat, maintained their momentum under coach Sonia Bompastor. Aggie Beever-Jones, who scored the final goal of the previous season, opened the scoring for Chelsea. Following her lead, Maika Hamano added a second before an own goal from Niamh Charles offered City a glimmer of hope. Despite some minor errors and a missed penalty opportunity, Chelsea’s performance reflected their status as the team to beat in the WSL.

The match also marked the debut of Ellie Carpenter, who proved instrumental in Chelsea’s attacking strategy. Her ability to press high and create space along the right flank posed significant challenges for the City defense. In contrast, Manchester City struggled to find their rhythm under new coach Andrée Jeglertz. Despite taking 17 shots, only five were on target, and prolific forward Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw was largely kept in check.

The opening match highlighted the need for City to rectify their issues with possession and finishing. With several new signings, including Jade Rose and Sydney Lohmann, the team is still in a phase of adjustment. Injuries to key players such as Grace Clinton and Lauren Hemp further complicated their efforts to establish a cohesive attacking front.

Arsenal faced a different challenge as they began their campaign against a tenacious London City side. The Lionesses initially took the lead through a penalty converted by Kosovare Asllani, but Arsenal responded effectively. New signing Olivia Smith, the first women’s player to command a £1 million transfer fee, equalized with a stunning strike. Shortly after, Chloe Kelly netted a second goal for the Gunners, taking advantage of London City’s defensive lapses.

Despite Arsenal’s victory, their performance revealed areas for improvement. Missed opportunities from Victoria Pelova and Alessia Russo highlighted the need for greater precision in front of goal. The Gunners maintained over 60% possession but will need to sharpen their execution to avoid being punished by more clinical opponents.

For London City, the match provided valuable experience. Defenders Rofiat Imuran and Saki Kumagai showed promise against a high-caliber Arsenal attack, but the team ultimately succumbed under pressure in the closing stages, conceding two late goals to Stina Blackstenius and Frida Maanum.

As the season progresses, both Chelsea and Arsenal will look to build on their opening successes. Chelsea aims to defend their titles, while Arsenal seeks to improve upon their performance and capitalize on their attacking potential. Meanwhile, London City must regroup and refine their strategy as they prepare for their next challenge against Manchester United.