The Women’s Super League delivered another weekend packed with thrilling matches and intriguing storylines as teams made their final push before the October international break. Chelsea, led by new manager Sonia Bompastor, continued their perfect start to the season with a 5-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, despite a controversial ‘ghost goal’ that briefly put their winning streak in jeopardy.
Elsewhere, Arsenal bounced back from a tumultuous week that saw the resignation of head coach Jonas Eidevall, securing a hard-fought 2-0 win against West Ham United under interim boss Reneé Slegers. The victory provided a much-needed boost for the Gunners, who now sit fifth in the table with a game in hand.
Chelsea’s Winning Machine Rolls On
Sonia Bompastor’s arrival at Chelsea has been nothing short of spectacular, with the Blues winning all six of their matches under the French coach’s guidance. The victory over Tottenham, however, was not without its controversies, as a peculiar ‘ghost goal’ threatened to derail their run of form.
The lack of goal-line technology in the Women’s Super League was called into question by Bompastor following the contested goal.
Despite the setback, Chelsea’s resilience shone through as they responded emphatically to secure a convincing 5-2 win. The Blues’ perfect record has laid a solid foundation for their pursuit of an unprecedented sixth consecutive WSL title and their first Champions League final appearance since 2021.
Arsenal’s New Chapter
Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United marked their first WSL win since the departure of former manager Jonas Eidevall. Under the guidance of interim boss Reneé Slegers, the Gunners took control in the second half after a shaky start, exorcising the demons of their previous two visits to West Ham, which had yielded a loss and a draw.
The international break provides a welcome respite for Arsenal, who have endured a challenging start to the season. However, their return to action sees them face a stern test against an unbeaten Manchester United side, which will undoubtedly stretch and examine their defensive frailties and attacking woes.
Atlético Madrid’s Identity Crisis
In Spain, Atlético Madrid’s 1-0 win over Real Sociedad propelled them to the top of the Liga F table, but their lack of a clear playing style and identity under new coach Victor Martín has raised concerns. The Rojiblancas have become adept at grinding out results, but their muddled approach may haunt them in the long run.
A clear sense of identity would only help to lift the entire level of the team and help drive the best out of the talent in the squad.
Around the Leagues
- Juventus Stumble: The Italian champions dropped their first points of the season in a goalless draw against Inter Milan, failing to bounce back from a midweek Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich.
- Foxes’ First Win: Leicester City secured their first victory of the campaign, courtesy of Yuka Momiki’s early strike against Everton, providing a much-needed boost for new manager Amandine Miquel.
- Karchaoui’s Versatility: Paris Saint-Germain’s Sakina Karchaoui showcased her adaptability, excelling in various positions as her side edged out Fleury 2-1.
- Liverpool’s Drawing Habit: The Reds settled for their third 1-1 draw of the season against Crystal Palace, with concerns growing over their inability to harness their attacking potential.
As the international break looms, teams will reflect on their performances and strategize for the challenges ahead. With the Women’s Super League and other European competitions heating up, the coming weeks promise to deliver more exhilarating football and captivating storylines.
