When it comes to women’s football, there are moments that transcend the ordinary, and this weekend’s clash between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford is undoubtedly one of them. With over 40,000 tickets already sold, it’s safe to say that this match is “not just an ordinary game” for Manchester United, who are currently unbeaten this season. Here are the five main talking points to keep an eye on before the weekend’s games.
1. ‘Unbelievable’ Old Trafford Derby on the Way
This weekend marks the fifth time Manchester United’s women’s team will play at the hallowed Old Trafford, and for the players, it remains an awe-inspiring privilege. United defender Jayde Riviere captures the sentiment perfectly, saying, “I feel like the word that I’ve been using is unbelievable.” Playing at Old Trafford is a dream come true for these athletes, a moment they would have never imagined when they were younger.
A derby day clash against their city rivals in front of a massive home crowd is a high-pressure scenario, but Riviere believes that the team thrives under such circumstances. And she’s not wrong; the electric atmosphere and fierce competition will undoubtedly bring out the best in both teams.
City, on the other hand, will be boosted by the return of Alex Greenwood from a head injury sustained on international duty. The stakes are high, especially after their unexpected defeat to Brighton in their last outing. City must regain their composure and aim to keep their title hopes alive.
2. Can Chelsea Maintain Their Bright Start?
Chelsea, the perennial powerhouse of women’s football, is on the hunt for an unprecedented fifth successive Women’s Super League (WSL) title. Their strong start to the season has put them three points ahead of second-placed Arsenal, with only one draw in their first six games. However, they face a potentially tricky challenge against Liverpool, who stunned Arsenal on the opening day of the season.
Chelsea’s midweek European outing against Real Madrid was marred by controversial refereeing decisions, resulting in a frustrating draw. Emma Hayes’ side will be eager to bounce back to winning ways in the WSL.
3. Everton’s Season Start
It’s been a tough start to the season for Everton, with only four points from their first six games. However, facing bottom-placed Bristol City presents an opportunity for the Blues to build momentum. Manager Brian Sorensen believes there were positives to take from their recent performance against league leaders Chelsea.
The key for Everton will be finding the back of the net from open play, as all three of their goals so far have come from set pieces. Rectifying this issue will be crucial for their progress.
4. Can Villa Get Going?
Aston Villa, who finished fifth last season, had a dismal start to this campaign, losing their first five games. However, they finally picked up their first points by defeating Bristol City last weekend. The pressure was mounting on Villa boss Carla Ward before that win, and now they must aim to build on it when they face West Ham on Sunday.
Ward remains optimistic, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the WSL and the potential for rapid changes in the league standings. A couple of wins can propel Villa up the table, and they’re determined to turn their season around.
5. Spurs’ Unexpected Rise
Tottenham Hotspur has been one of the surprise packages of the season, currently sitting in fourth place in the Women’s Super League. After an opening day defeat to Chelsea, they recorded three successive wins but have since drawn their last two matches against Everton and Liverpool.
Manager Robert Vilahamn is pleased with his team’s performances, emphasizing that the results don’t necessarily reflect the quality of play. Spurs face Leicester City this weekend before entering a challenging period with fixtures against Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal.
In conclusion, the Women’s Super League continues to provide thrilling and unpredictable action, with teams vying for supremacy in an ever-competitive landscape. The upcoming matches promise excitement, drama, and moments that will be remembered long after the final whistle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about WSL Women’s Football
Q: When and where is the Manchester derby in the Women’s Super League taking place?
A: The Manchester derby in the Women’s Super League is set to take place at Old Trafford, and it’s scheduled for this weekend. Make sure to check the latest fixtures for the exact date and time.
Q: What’s the significance of playing at Old Trafford for Manchester United’s women’s team?
A: Playing at Old Trafford is a dream come true for the Manchester United women’s team. It’s an awe-inspiring experience for the players, and they view it as a privilege. The atmosphere and pressure of a derby match at this iconic stadium make it a truly special occasion.
Q: How are Chelsea performing in the Women’s Super League this season?
A: Chelsea is performing strongly in the Women’s Super League this season. They are currently leading the league and are three points ahead of their closest competitors. Chelsea is a dominant force in women’s football and is aiming for an unprecedented fifth successive WSL title.
Q: What challenges are Everton facing at the start of the season?
A: Everton has faced challenges at the start of the season, securing only four points from their first six games. Their main struggle has been finding the net from open play, with all three of their goals coming from set pieces. However, they remain optimistic and are looking to build on positives from recent performances.
Q: Can Aston Villa recover from their poor start to the season?
A: Aston Villa had a tough start to the season with five consecutive losses. However, they recently picked up their first points with a win. Villa’s manager believes in their potential to turn the season around, emphasizing that the WSL is unpredictable, and a couple of wins can quickly change their league position.
Q: How has Tottenham Hotspur been performing in the Women’s Super League?
A: Tottenham Hotspur has been a surprise package in the Women’s Super League this season. They currently sit in fourth place, following three successive wins after their opening day defeat to Chelsea. While they’ve drawn their last two matches, their manager is pleased with their performances and believes in their journey of progress.
More about WSL Women’s Football
- Women’s Super League Official Website
- Manchester United Women’s Team
- Manchester City Women’s Team
- Chelsea Women’s Team
- Liverpool Women’s Team
- Everton Women’s Team
- Bristol City Women’s Team
- Aston Villa Women’s Team
- West Ham United Women’s Team
- Tottenham Hotspur Women’s Team
- Old Trafford Stadium
- Stamford Bridge Stadium
- Women’s Super League on BBC Sport
4 comments
Chelsea doin’ good, leadin’ the WSL, but that Liverpool game’s gonna be tough, ya know. they had that draw with Man City, hope they bounce back strong!
Spurs surprisin’ everyone, 4th place, not bad at all! Hope they keep the momentum, tough games ahead tho, Man Utd, Man City, Arsenal, gonna be a test!
wow, Man Utd vs. Man City at old trafford! it’s gonna be amazin’, such an importnt game. like, Jayde Riviere says unbelievable, playin’ there is like a dream come true, 40k fans gonna cheer ’em on!
Everton needs to step up, only 4 points so far, they gotta score from open play, c’mon! But Villa got their 1st win, maybe they can turn it around, WSL’s crazy, anything can happen!