Match Review: Player Ratings in Chelsea vs. Arsenal

**Hannah Hampton (4/10):**
Hampton nearly jeopardized Chelsea’s position with a careless pass, though Mille Bright intervened with a critical challenge to avert disaster. Unfortunately, she could not prevent Russo’s late strike, managing only a hand on the ball.

**Lucy Bronze (5/10):**
Starting at right-back after previously playing center-back against the London City Lionesses, Bronze exhibited some signs of rustiness during her encounters with Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord.

**Nathalie Bjorn (5/10):**
The Swedish defender displayed resilience against compatriot Blackstenius, managing to thwart several threats. However, she nearly scored an own goal due to an air shot late in the match.

**Mille Bright (5/10):**
Achieving her 210th appearance in WSL history, Bright displayed general composure, although there was a brief lapse in possession during the first half.

**Niamh Charles (4/10):**
The left-back narrowly escaped a critical error when her poor clearance was seized by Blackstenius, whose goal was controversially disallowed for handball. She faced challenges against Arsenal substitute Olivia Smith.

**Wieke Kaptein (5/10):**
Kaptein had an opportunity to score in the first half, but her header was saved from close range. She later missed a chance to assist Kaneryd during a promising counter-attack.

**Keira Walsh (7/10):**
Walsh consistently dictated the game’s tempo, playing a pivotal through ball that set up Thompson for Chelsea’s goal.

**Erin Cuthbert (6/10):**
Cuthbert remained composed in midfield, rarely surrendering possession, which provided a solid foundation for Chelsea’s play.

**Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (8/10):**
Kaneryd had an electrifying start, hitting the post within two minutes and later assisting Thompson for Chelsea’s goal.

**Catarina Macario (7/10):**
Macario demonstrated a blend of clever link-up play and physical strength, causing difficulties for the Arsenal defense, although her influence diminished as the match progressed.

**Alyssa Thompson (8/10):**
Thompson showcased her speed and skill, executing a swift one-two with Kaneryd before lobbing Van Domselaar to score Chelsea’s opener.

**Ellie Carpenter (6/10):**
As a second-half substitute, Carpenter advanced whenever possible, leveraging her experience to assist the visitors.

**Sam Kerr (6/10):**
Introducing Kerr late in the game provided Chelsea with an additional counter-attacking option, as they adjusted their strategy.

**Oriane Jean-François (N/A):**
Jean-François did not make a significant impact as a late substitute.

**Sandy Baltimore (N/A):**
Baltimore was brought on too late to affect the outcome of the game.

**Sonia Bompastor (7/10):**
Bompastor made five changes to her lineup and witnessed Thompson reward her trust with an exceptional goal. The additions of Carpenter and Kerr also proved beneficial.