The Women's Super League title race took a significant turn this weekend as the competition resumed following its winter break. While the leading pack maintained their momentum, the ambitions of two traditional giants suffered a potentially fatal blow in a high-stakes stalemate.
Title Hopes Dented at the Emirates
The weekend's headline fixture saw Arsenal and Manchester United play out a tense 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium. The result leaves both sides with a mountain to climb in the championship pursuit. The panel on Women's Football Weekly highlighted familiar attacking problems for Arsenal, who struggled to break down a resilient United defence. The visitors showed tremendous resolve, especially after being reduced to ten players, with their defensive discipline earning a valuable point. The show also discussed what Renée Slegers's new contract might signal for United's plans in the coming months.
Leaders and Champions Restart in Ruthless Fashion
While the clash in North London ended scoreless, the division's top two teams had no such issues. Manchester City secured their 11th consecutive league victory, defeating their opponents to maintain a six-point lead at the summit. Analysis focused on City's relentless chance creation and the impactful performances of players like Kerolin, questioning whether anyone can halt their charge.
Meanwhile, Chelsea began life under new head coach Rita Guarino in spectacular style, racking up a five-goal win over West Ham United. The dominant display immediately puts pressure on the leaders and raises the question: can the reigning champions still reel in Manchester City?
Weekend Round-Up: Villa Fight Back, Spurs Edge It
Elsewhere in the WSL, there were important results at both ends of the table. Aston Villa came from behind to secure a victory against Brighton & Hove Albion, demonstrating their growing resilience. Tottenham Hotspur narrowly edged Leicester City in a match decided by an unfortunate own goal from Ashleigh Neville.
The weekend also saw a stalemate between Liverpool and London City Lionesses, with both teams drawing a blank in their first outing under new management. As the January transfer window opens, new signings are beginning to make their debuts, adding another layer of intrigue to the season's second half.
With the title race narrowing and the battle for European places intensifying, the WSL's return has set the stage for a compelling finale to the campaign.
