Arsenal and Chelsea Draw; Manchester United Suffers First Defeat

Alessia Russo’s late equalizer secured Arsenal a well-deserved 1-1 draw against Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, as the latter equaled their Women’s Super League record of 33 matches unbeaten.

The England striker scored in the 87th minute after United States forward Alyssa Thompson had put Chelsea ahead with a remarkable solo goal earlier in the match. Chelsea came close to extending their lead, striking the woodwork twice through Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Catarina Macario. Since taking over from Emma Hayes in May 2024, coach Sonia Bompastor remains unbeaten.

Arsenal felt aggrieved when striker Stina Blackstenius had a second-half goal disallowed for a handball prior to scoring from a corner kick.

In another match, Manchester United experienced their first defeat of the Women’s Super League season, losing 1-0 to Aston Villa at Leigh Sports Village. Miri Taylor’s first-half goal marked United’s first loss after eight matches, preventing them from ascending to the top of the table.

Aston Villa extended their unbeaten streak to six matches across all competitions, securing their second league victory of the season. United aimed for an early advantage; however, Villa defender Anna Patten effectively cleared a threatening cross from Fridolina Rolfö.

The first half saw both teams struggle to create clear chances, with Villa’s Georgia Mullett registering the first shot on target, which was comfortably saved by United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce. Just ten minutes before halftime, Taylor capitalized on a corner that United failed to clear, striking the ball past Tullis-Joyce to give Villa the lead.

In the second half, United sought an equalizer, with manager Marc Skinner introducing top WSL goalscorer Melvine Malard, winger Leah Galton, and left-back Anna Sandberg. A late opportunity arose when Sandberg’s cross found substitute Rachel Williams, but her header was easily collected by Villa goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo, allowing the visitors to hold on for a surprising victory.