Manchester City Women have sent a powerful statement in the Women's Super League title race, securing a hard-fought 3-0 victory away to Leicester City to extend their winning streak to nine games and solidify their six-point lead at the summit.
A Ruthless Final Flourish Seals the Deal
The match at Leicester's King Power Stadium was a test of patience for the league leaders. For over 70 minutes, a resolute and deep-lying Leicester defence, often with all eleven players behind the ball, frustrated City's attacking efforts on a wet Sunday afternoon. Despite dominating possession with 75.5% of the ball and registering 30 shots to Leicester's two, the deadlock remained unbroken until the 73rd minute.
It was the prolific Khadija Shaw who finally made the breakthrough, showcasing her clinical edge with a sharp turn and low finish inside the box. This goal seemed to unlock the game for City, who added two more in quick succession. Shaw turned provider moments later, nodding in from a corner to double the lead, before setting up substitute Kerolin, who raced onto a pass and finished coolly to complete the 3-0 scoreline.
The Blueprint for City's Dominant Season
This victory underscored the key tactical elements driving Manchester City's formidable campaign. They have utilised width and delivery more effectively than any other side, whipping in 130 crosses from open play in their ten games so far. This strategy was evident against Leicester, with wingers Lauren Hemp and Aoba Fujino, along with left-back Leila Ouahabi, consistently providing dangerous service for Shaw.
Manager Andrée Jeglertz praised his star striker's mentality, stating, "She never loses the trust. She is still working hard... she's doing everything for the team." Shaw, now the WSL's top scorer with eight goals, echoed this team-first approach, crediting the quality around her for creating constant chances.
However, the success is far from a one-woman show. The marauding runs of full-backs Ouahabi and Kerstin Casparij, the technical control of Yui Hasegawa in midfield, and the growing influence of Laura Blindkilde Brown provide a solid foundation. The strength in depth was also apparent, with England international Grace Clinton coming off the bench to help see out the win.
Title Credentials Strengthened Amidst Rebirth
This result marks the first time in the club's history they have won nine of their opening ten league matches. For a team that finished a distant 17 points behind champions Chelsea last season, it represents a remarkable transformation. Leicester manager Rick Passmoor acknowledged City's cutting edge, noting, "They were ruthless. I think they'll only get better."
With no European distractions this season, Manchester City's focus is squarely on domestic glory. While challenges lie ahead, including the potential absence of key players like Hasegawa and Fujino for the Asian Cup in March, their current form and points cushion make them the team to beat. A decade on from their only WSL title win in 2016, Gareth Taylor's reborn and ruthless side are firmly on course to realise their championship dream.
