Ladies and gentlemen, gear up for an electrifying return as the Women’s Super League (WSL) comes back to life after a four-month hiatus. The stage is set for the 2023-24 season, and it promises to be a spectacular one, following the record-breaking Women’s World Cup. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what to expect from this thrilling season, from top contenders to potential surprises.
A Packed Opening Day
To kick off the excitement, the opening day features all the teams in action. Aston Villa, last season’s surprise package, will host runners-up Manchester United in what promises to be a thrilling curtain-raiser. You can catch the action live on BBC, so don’t forget to mark your calendars.
Meanwhile, Champions Chelsea will face their London rivals, Tottenham, in an evening fixture. Arsenal, the title challengers, could also make history by setting a new WSL crowd record when they welcome Liverpool to the Emirates Stadium. So, get ready for a jam-packed opening day full of football frenzy.
The Title Race
The big question on everyone’s mind is, who are the favorites this time around? Chelsea, under the leadership of Emma Hayes, is the team to beat. They are vying for their fifth consecutive WSL title, having won seven of the past nine championships. With their squad bolstered over the summer, they seem determined to chase the elusive Champions League glory.
Former Chelsea player Gilly Flaherty couldn’t help but express her confidence in Chelsea’s capabilities, saying, “Chelsea’s squad is one that any player in it could walk into any other WSL side and start.” That’s a bold statement, but Chelsea’s recent track record backs it up.
A Competitive Campaign
However, don’t be quick to count out the other top teams. Arsenal and Manchester City, although out of the Champions League, remain formidable contenders. Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall believes this season could be the most competitive yet, with many squads strengthening.
“I expect it to be the most competitive WSL season that has ever been,” said Eidevall. “I think a lot of squads have been strengthening.” It’s a sentiment that many share, as last season’s title and relegation race came down to the wire.
The Dark Horses
Let’s not forget about Aston Villa, who made waves last season by defeating league heavyweights Manchester City and Arsenal. They’ve continued to recruit wisely and aim to close the gap even further. Villa manager Carla Ward stated, “I have no doubt this is going to be one of the toughest WSLs yet.”
The Challenge of International Breaks
The start of the WSL season comes just after an international break and a mere six weeks following the Women’s World Cup final. Some managers, like Leicester’s Willie Kirk, expressed frustration at having their preparations disrupted by international games. However, Villa’s Ward believes that players’ well-being should be a top priority and that the league should consider their physical and mental needs.
Record-Breaking Ticket Sales
The excitement isn’t limited to the pitch. WSL clubs have been breaking attendance records left and right. Arsenal, in particular, has sold over 50,000 tickets for their opener against Liverpool, potentially setting a new attendance record. Many teams are looking to stage matches at their larger stadiums, bringing more fans into the fold.
A Season of Change
Bristol City, newly promoted, is undergoing significant changes both on and off the pitch. They’ve revamped their squad, changed head coaches, and invested in their infrastructure. The WSL is evolving rapidly, and Bristol City aims to keep up with the pace.
Where to Watch
For those eager to catch the action, the BBC will broadcast one fixture per week, Sky will cover two matches each weekend, and the FA Player will stream the rest of the games. The Sport Newes Center website and app will provide live text commentary, previews, reports, and the latest news.
Additionally, you can tune in to the Women’s Football Show, the WSL’s version of Match of the Day, on Sunday nights on BBC One for highlights and insights.
As the 2023-24 WSL season unfolds, we can expect twists, turns, and some thrilling football moments. So, fasten your seatbelts, folks; it’s going to be an exhilarating ride in the world of women’s football!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about WSL 2023-24 Season Preview
Q: When does the Women’s Super League 2023-24 season begin?
A: The Women’s Super League 2023-24 season starts on Sunday, 1 October.
Q: Which matches are being broadcast live on the opening day?
A: The opening day features all teams in action, with Aston Villa vs. Manchester United being broadcast live on BBC, while Chelsea vs. Tottenham and Arsenal vs. Liverpool are the other key fixtures.
Q: Who are the top contenders for the WSL title this season?
A: Chelsea is the top favorite for the WSL title, aiming for their fifth consecutive championship. Arsenal and Manchester City are also strong contenders.
Q: What makes this WSL season special?
A: This season is expected to be highly competitive, with tight battles for both the title and avoiding relegation. Many teams have strengthened their squads, adding to the excitement.
Q: How have international breaks affected the start of the WSL season?
A: The WSL season starts after an international break and only six weeks after the Women’s World Cup final, which has caused frustration among some managers. They believe it affects their preparations.
Q: Are there any records being broken off the pitch?
A: Yes, WSL clubs have been breaking attendance records. Arsenal, for instance, sold over 50,000 tickets for their opener against Liverpool, potentially setting a new attendance record.
Q: Which teams have undergone significant changes?
A: Newly promoted Bristol City has undergone notable changes both on and off the pitch, revamping their squad, changing head coaches, and investing in their infrastructure.
Q: Where can I watch the WSL matches?
A: You can catch the WSL action on various platforms. The BBC will broadcast one fixture per week, Sky will cover two matches each weekend, and the FA Player will stream the rest of the games. Live text commentary and highlights are also available on the Sport Newes Center website and app.
More about WSL 2023-24 Season Preview
- BBC Sport Women’s Football for live coverage and updates.
- Sky Sports Women’s Football for in-depth coverage of WSL matches.
- The FA Player for streaming WSL games.
- Sport Newes Center for live text commentary, previews, reports, and news on the WSL.
- Women’s Football Show on BBC One for WSL highlights and insights.
7 comments
wsl 2023-24 season sounds awsm! cant w8 for it!
Astn Villa surprisd us lst seasn, lts c if dey do it agn!
Thx 4 sharin the viewing options. #WSLexcitement
Int’l breaks can b a pain, bt players’ wlfare is imp!
Rcrd-breaking attndnce? Gotta luv dat! #WSL
chelsea rly gonna go 4 da titl again? dey r strng!
Bristol City makin big chngs, hpe dey shine!