At first glance, the scoreboard might convince you that nothing much has shifted in women’s football.
Chelsea are still sitting at the top of the WSL, grinding out another one-goal victory – the kind of result that’s become their signature.
Last season alone, they managed that margin ten times in nineteen games.
But scratch beneath the surface, and this wasn’t just another routine Chelsea night.
There’s plenty about this season that already feels different.
Beever-Jones Picks Up Where She Left Off
The first spark of the new campaign came from Aggie Beever-Jones, who seems to love scoring at Stamford Bridge.
She grabbed Chelsea’s opening goal of the 2025-26 season, reminding fans of the finishing touch she left them with last time out.
And it wasn’t just about goals – the night carried an air of spectacle too.
Chelsea unveiled their newest star, 20-year-old American forward Alyssa Thompson, who arrived with a hefty £1 million price tag and the kind of smoke-machine fanfare usually reserved for rock stars.
A League in Transition
Change is in the air across the WSL, and not just because fans can now sip pints in their seats.
Transfer fees have skyrocketed in recent weeks, with world records tumbling almost weekly.
Clubs are splashing the cash, new players are arriving, and familiar faces are making a comeback – including Sam Kerr, who finally returned to Chelsea’s bench after 20 long months out.
Manchester City Make Their Intentions Clear
Chelsea may have come away with the win, but Manchester City made sure everyone noticed them.
At Stamford Bridge – a ground where few leave with points – City rattled the champions.
They registered 17 shots, forced Hannah Hampton into five saves, and dominated most of the game’s statistics.
For all their intensity, City lacked the sharp edge Chelsea thrive on.
Still, their performance will give them belief that they can seriously challenge for the title this season.
A Tough Start for City’s New Boss
It was no gentle introduction for Andrée Jeglertz.
The 53-year-old Swede, only nine weeks into his tenure, found himself thrown straight into the fire.
A Champions League winner with Umeå back in 2004, he’s new to English football but brings a solid European pedigree.
Early signs suggest his open approach is paying off.
City players have praised his willingness to listen during training and, crucially, his readiness to rotate the squad – a welcome shift from Gareth Taylor’s rigid selection habits.
Young Talent Stepping Up
That openness was clear at Stamford Bridge, where Jeglertz handed starts to academy products Gracie Prior (20) and Lily Murphy (19).
Both impressed on the big stage, with Prior in particular showing her authority at the back – even if she got away with a questionable handball.
Her presence helped City fight back into the contest, keeping Chelsea nervous until the very end.
Injuries Strike Again
But just as City looked like they might turn the tide, their old curse returned.
Alex Greenwood, one of their Euro 2025 heroes, limped off with an ankle injury.
Moments later, Murphy was stretchered off in tears, holding her shoulder.
In the space of minutes, City’s momentum collapsed, and Chelsea seized control again.
Chelsea’s New Stars Shine
While City struggled with setbacks, Chelsea’s new addition Ellie Carpenter stood out.
The Australian defender played a key role in both goals and looks ready to push Lucy Bronze for the right-back spot once she recovers from her injury.
Cracks in Chelsea’s Armour?
Yes, Chelsea took the points. Yes, they’re still unbeaten at Stamford Bridge under Sonia Bompastor.
But rivals will look at this game and see signs of vulnerability – moments where City exposed gaps and forced Chelsea to dig deep.
And for the fans sipping beers in the stands under the WSL’s new matchday rules, that makes the season ahead all the more exciting.
What’s Next for the Title Race?
Chelsea remain the team to beat, but City have shown they’re serious contenders.
If this opening clash is anything to go by, the race for the WSL crown could be tighter – and more thrilling – than it has been in years.