Arsenal’s Victory Over Chelsea Paves the Way for Manchester City in WSL Title Race

LONDON — The true beneficiaries of Arsenal’s unexpected 2-0 triumph over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday were not the players on the field, but rather Manchester City, who now have the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Women’s Super League (WSL) to nine points with a win this weekend.

In a season marked by struggles and numerous injuries, Arsenal capitalized on Chelsea’s missed opportunities to achieve their first away victory against them since 2018. This outcome not only impacts the WSL title race but may also signal its conclusion.

Should City secure a win against London City Lionesses, they will establish an almost insurmountable gap at the top of the table as the season approaches its climax. This result could also enliven the Women’s Champions League standings, as Arsenal remains in third place, now just one point behind Chelsea in second.

After a cautious start, the match saw both teams create numerous chances, although Arsenal appeared to have the upper hand. However, a lack of execution left the scoreboard blank for an extended period.

In the second half, Arsenal rectified their earlier shortcomings. Beth Mead, having been thwarted on several occasions, finally found the net in the 55th minute, giving her team a 1-0 lead after relentless pressure that left Chelsea struggling to regain their composure.

Alyssa Thompson, who had posed a constant threat to Arsenal, nearly equalized with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target. This episode encapsulated Chelsea’s struggles throughout the match. Arsenal’s pressing was notably more aggressive and effective than in previous outings this season, forcing their opponents into mistakes and resulting in a disorganized attack for Chelsea, which produced only one shot on target from 19 attempts.

Mariona Caldentey was then given too much space in the box, allowing her to neatly finish and extend Arsenal’s lead to 2-0.

Chelsea failed to address their tactical issues and became architects of their own defeat. Ironically, their best opportunities arose late in the game, but those attempts were mishit and lacked precision.

Arsenal’s inefficiency in front of goal has contributed to a series of disappointing draws and losses this season, often despite creating chances. While this victory does not resolve all of their issues, it serves as a reminder of their potential when given space and the opportunity to find their rhythm—an essential factor in the upcoming month.

With a challenging schedule ahead, including the inaugural Champions Cup and a crucial title showdown against City, followed by Champions League playoffs against OH Leuven, this win provides Arsenal with a much-needed morale boost.

These upcoming matches are pivotal, carrying immense significance for both team spirit and potential trophies. Securing a victory against Chelsea, a team that has historically had the upper hand, will undoubtedly reinvigorate fan support, which had begun to dwindle amid recent underwhelming performances.

However, injury concerns loom over the squad. Chloe Kelly is grappling with a knee ligament issue, while Leah Williamson, who recently returned from a knee injury sustained during Euro 2025, has now faced another setback with a calf injury. Additionally, Katie Reid, Manuela Zinsberger, and Michelle Agyemang are all rehabilitating from ACL injuries, with Agyemang’s absence particularly felt as she was on loan to Brighton before her injury.

Daphne van Domeslaar’s return to the bench is a positive sign, but Frida Maanum’s absence due to illness leaves limited options, with only five outfield substitutes available. Olivia Smith is currently suspended after receiving a red card in the recent League Cup semifinal against Manchester United.

As Manchester City prepares to face the London City Lionesses, Chelsea’s defeat presents a significant advantage for City manager Andrée Jeglertz.

This could indicate that the title race may already be decided. City had already faced a daunting challenge, needing to drop points in at least two remaining matches while hoping every other team secures victories. Now, asking a City side that has won every match since their opening-day loss to Chelsea to falter is an uphill battle.

Arsenal will need to perform flawlessly against City on February 8, following their Champions Cup commitments, if they hope to keep their title hopes alive. A win for City, followed by a potential victory over Chelsea the following week, could hand them the championship long before the league’s final stages.