The Women’s Super League is back, and while some things feel the same, there’s no denying a shift is happening in the game.
Chelsea kicked off their title defence with a win at Stamford Bridge, but Manchester City’s performance suggested this season might not be the straightforward ride many expect.
Chelsea Edge Ahead by the Narrowest of Margins
Chelsea fans are used to these kinds of wins — tight, gritty, and settled by just one goal.
Last season, they managed it ten times in 19 games, and here they were again, making a winning start by the slimmest of margins.
Aggie Beever-Jones, who scored the last women’s goal at Stamford Bridge, repeated the feat to get the champions up and running.
Adding to the spectacle was the grand unveiling of Chelsea’s latest big-money signing: 20-year-old American forward Alyssa Thompson, brought in for a record-breaking £1 million.
A League Undergoing a Transformation
Beyond the football itself, there’s a sense that the league is evolving.
Fans at Stamford Bridge were allowed to drink alcohol in the stands as part of a new trial — a first for Women’s Super League Football.
Meanwhile, transfer fees have skyrocketed in recent weeks, breaking records again and again.
Big names have arrived, and familiar stars have returned, including Chelsea’s Sam Kerr, who made it back to the bench after a 20-month absence.
City Push Chelsea to Their Limits
Despite the scoreline, it was Manchester City who dominated.
They had 17 shots, forced Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton into five saves, and generally looked the sharper side.
The numbers told one story, but Chelsea’s clinical edge told another.
City may not have left with the points, but they certainly left with confidence, proving they can go toe-to-toe with the champions at one of the hardest grounds to visit.
A Baptism of Fire for Andree Jeglertz
For City’s new manager, Andree Jeglertz, this was quite the introduction.
Just nine weeks into the job, the Swedish coach has already left an impression.
With a Champions League title under his belt from his time at Umea, he brought fresh energy and a new approach compared to his predecessor, Gareth Taylor.
Players have praised his openness in training and his willingness to rotate the squad — a welcome change after frustrations last season about over-reliance on the same line-up.
Young Players Given Their Chance
That shift was clear at Stamford Bridge, where academy graduates Gracie Prior (20) and Lily Murphy (19) started for City.
Prior stood out with her commanding defensive display, even if she was fortunate to escape punishment for a handball.
Her presence was key in helping City pull a goal back and put Chelsea under pressure late on.
Injuries Strike Again
But City’s night was overshadowed by injuries.
Euros star Alex Greenwood limped off with an ankle problem, and moments later Murphy was stretchered off in tears clutching her shoulder.
The disruption swung the momentum back in Chelsea’s favour, and the champions closed the game out with three points.
Chelsea’s New Faces Step Up
New signing Ellie Carpenter impressed in her debut, heavily involved in both Chelsea goals.
The Australian full-back looks set to provide stiff competition for Lucy Bronze once England’s star recovers from her summer injury.
Cracks Beginning to Show?
Chelsea may have won, but their vulnerabilities were on display.
City’s dominance in the stats won’t go unnoticed by their rivals, who will sense opportunities this season.
For the fans enjoying their beers in the stands, it was more than just a night of football — it was a glimpse into a Women’s Super League that’s changing before our eyes.