Arsenal and Chelsea Battle to Draw in WSL Showdown

Arsenal maintained their dwindling title aspirations by staging a comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against reigning champions Chelsea.

Chelsea dominated the first half, taking the lead through summer signing Thompson, who netted her first WSL goal. The second half saw Arsenal respond emphatically, scoring three times, although only one goal was ultimately validated.

Both Arsenal manager Slegers and Chelsea’s Bompastor expressed their frustration over several refereeing decisions, advocating for the introduction of VAR in the Women’s Super League (WSL). As a result of the match at Emirates Stadium, Chelsea has now matched the longest unbeaten streak in WSL history, remaining undefeated in 33 league matches.

In the current season, Chelsea has claimed victory in six out of their first eight games, positioning themselves at the top of the WSL table, two points ahead of Manchester City.

In a post-match statement, Arsenal manager Slegers emphasized the necessity for accurate officiating, stating, “In a game like this, we need just decisions. We need justice. That’s where I think VAR and technology can come in. There’s more at stake in the WSL, both at the top and in the relegation battle. We need to consider how we can advance the game in all aspects.”

Bompastor echoed these sentiments, remarking, “Integrating technology into the women’s game would be one of the best decisions we can make. This fixture is among the most prestigious globally, with two strong teams and an outstanding atmosphere at the Emirates. It serves as excellent promotion for the WSL, which should be balanced with better officiating.”

Arsenal’s Stina Blackstenius had a goal annulled in the 53rd minute after a remarkable long-range shot. The Gunners were initially elated as they celebrated the equalizer, only to later discover that referee Melissa Burgin had ruled a free-kick against Blackstenius for handball.

Subsequent replays suggested that Blackstenius’s action may not have constituted a handball, as she appeared to move her arm backward while controlling the ball with her midsection. Slegers expressed his disbelief, saying, “I had no idea [the goal had been disallowed]. The goal was scored, no one was signaling for a decision, and then suddenly, I see someone indicating the goal is disallowed, which surprised me greatly.”

Following this intense encounter in North London, both WSL powerhouses will prepare for their respective European challenges in the Women’s Champions League this week. Chelsea will face St Polten on Tuesday, while Arsenal will take on Bayern Munich a day later. In their next WSL fixtures, Chelsea will clash with Liverpool away, and Arsenal will compete against arch-rivals Tottenham in the North London derby on Sunday.