Arsenal Rule the World but Tournament Format Sparks Debate
Arsenal Women have been crowned world champions following a dramatic 3-2 victory over Copa Libertadores holders Corinthians in the Champions Cup final. This global title arrives despite the Gunners sitting fourth in the Women's Super League, albeit with a game in hand, and facing a Champions League playoff after failing to secure automatic quarter-final qualification.
Home Advantage Raises Serious Questions
The triumph, however, is overshadowed by significant concerns regarding the tournament's structure. Arsenal enjoyed considerable home comforts throughout the competition, which was staged entirely in England with the final hosted at their own Meadow Park ground. While the Gunners were match-fit and operating from their elite training facilities, opponents including Corinthians, Gotham FC, and Moroccan champions AS Far faced extensive travel, hotel stays, and inferior preparation conditions.
This disparity has prompted calls for a comprehensive rethink of the Champions Cup format. Timing and location are now top of the agenda for football authorities if the tournament is to gain credibility as a serious global competition. The current setup, which heavily favoured the European representatives, risks undermining the prestige of the world championship title.
WSL Talking Points: Pressure Mounts Across the League
Chelsea's Transfer Strategy Under Scrutiny
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has hinted at dissatisfaction with the club's summer transfer business following a sobering 5-1 defeat to runaway leaders Manchester City. Referencing a lack of "squad depth", Bompastor's comments have triggered a negative reaction among supporters as the defending champions languish 12 points adrift. This loss marked Chelsea's first consecutive WSL defeats since 2015, leaving the team looking bereft of confidence.
Spurs Display Gritty Maturity in Comeback Win
Tottenham Hotspur produced a comeback of growing maturity to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a resurgent West Ham. Manager Martin Ho had emphasised the need to "understand adversity" pre-match, and his side demonstrated exactly that after a difficult first half. Sublime finishes from Matilda Vinberg and Olivia Holdt turned the game around, showcasing the gritty resilience that defines this Spurs team.
Everton Finally Make Goodison Feel Like Home
Everton ended their long wait for a WSL win at Goodison Park with a vital 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, inspired by a brace from centre-back Martina Fernández. Her 89th-minute header sealed a breakthrough moment for a side that had been booed by their own supporters just a week prior. This result could prove pivotal in Everton's battle against relegation, potentially marking a turning point in their season.
Godfrey's Quality Secures London City Victory
Freya Godfrey inspired London City Lionesses to their first league win under manager Eder Maestre, transforming a 2-1 victory after Brighton had dominated possession. Godfrey's dangerous cross forced an own goal before she struck a superb counter-attacking finish just before half-time. "We are a fighting team," admitted Maestre, acknowledging the gritty rather than controlled nature of the performance.
Naalsund Fires Manchester United into Second
Lisa Naalsund's ruthless double secured a 3-1 victory over Liverpool that propelled Manchester United into second place in the WSL. The midfielder's player-of-the-match performance, featuring two excellent strikes, gave manager Marc Skinner welcome selection headaches. Naalsund has had limited game time recently, making her contribution particularly timely as United strengthen their Champions League qualification push.
WSL Table Highlights Intense Competition
The current Women's Super League table reflects an intensely competitive season. Manchester City lead with 39 points from 14 games, followed closely by Manchester United (28 points), Chelsea (27 points), and Arsenal (26 points from 13 games). The battle for European qualification remains fiercely contested, while at the bottom, Everton's recent victory has provided crucial momentum in their survival fight.
