In front of a sell out crowd of around 17,000 people, The Lionesses will want to continue their dominance and hopefully extend their incredible unbeaten run to 31 games under boss Sarina Wiegman. Standing in their way are Australia, who prior to their 1-0 defeat to Scotland on Friday, had been in great form.

Team News

England: 

The lionesses will be without defender Alex Greenwood for tonight’s game as she withdrew from the squad 3 days ago due to injury. Wiegman confirmed in her pre-match press conference that Greenwood was showing some signs of concussion, so she has been sent back to Manchester City to receive some treatment.

Apart from Greenwood, everyone else in the squad will be available for selection. Wiegman did hint that she would start the same 11 that started against Brazil on Thursday. But it will be interesting to see who takes Greenwood’s place, could an international debut be handed to West Ham’s Lucy Parker?

Australia: 

The Matilda’s may be without a lot of their key players such as Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord and Alanna Kennedy (Manchester City) who both withdrew from the squad due to injury prior to the Scotland fixture last Friday.

But, Chelsea’s star striker and global icon Sam Kerr is likely to feature tonight after being an unused substitution in Friday afternoons fixture.

H2H

Tonight’s fixture will be the first time these two nations have faced one another since 2018. This fixture ended in a 1-1 draw with goals coming from Fran Kirby (Eng) and Clare Polkinghorne (Aus)

Since 2011, the sides have only played each other 4 times and excluding the most recent draw,  England have W2 and Australia have W1.

But with England’s breathtaking form under Wiegman it could prove a difficult test for Australia tonight especially as they are missing some key players in midfield and defence.

Key Players:

England -> Lucy Bronze

Barcelona’s Lucy Bronze proves every game why she is the best defensive and attacking right back in the world.

Her darting runs forward down the right flank and her link up play with wingers Lauren Hemp, Lauren James or Chloe Kelly and even midfielders Kiera Walsh and Georgia Stanway benefits the side massively going forward. Also her work rate and ability to defend against some of the fastest and best wingers in the world makes her an incredible all round defender.

She provided the brilliant cut back ball to Ella Toone on Thursday night at Wembley after linking up with numerous players in the build up. The 31 year old also has one or two goals in her especially from corners or long range efforts so Australia must keep an eye on her tonight.

This team pic.twitter.com/gSlSX3UpfQ

— Lucy Bronze (@LucyBronze) April 6, 2023

Australia -> Sam Kerr

So many of the English players, especially the defenders will know just how good Sam Kerr is after playing against her numerous times in the WSL where the 29 year old plays for Chelsea.

Kerr is no doubt one of the best strikers in the world as she has an unreal goal scoring ability and she is such a popular figure for women’s football across the globe.

This season the forward has made 16 WSL appearances and has bagged herself 8 goals and 4 assists. She is third in the goal scoring list, where England’s Rachel Daly currently sits 5 goals above her. But her record for her country is outstanding, she is her countries all time leading goal scorer, and could cause the English defenders a problem tonight especially if they switch off for just one second.

Match Details

The game is scheduled to kick off at 19.45 (BST) tonight (Tuesday 11th April).

If you aren’t attending the game, it will be live on ITV4 or the ITVX app for UK based viewers only.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”338″ heading=”England” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Chelsea’s Lauren James stole the show in Milton Keynes as England began their defence of the Arnold Clark Cup with a superb start as they eased past Korea.

England are the favourites to win the Arnold Clark Cup for the second time, and as they are the highest ranked side in the tournament, boss Sarina Wiegman decided to make some changes to her usual starting XI, which saw Lauren James, who is having a brilliant season in the WSL with Chelsea, get given her opportunity as well as Jess Carter.

James definitely did not disappoint.

The 21-year-old was the standout performer for the Lionesses as not only did she win the penalty which Georgia Stanway fired home to send the Lionesses on their way to victory, she caused the Korean defence problems all game with her strength and driving runs forward and she topped off her performance by scoring her first goal for her country.

Captain Leah Williamson also made her return to the national side, but not in her usual defence role, Wiegman experimented by playing her in the holding midfield role as Keira Walsh was absent due to illness.

England dominated the game in the early stages but only had one goal to show for it thanks to Stanways emphatic penalty after 40 minutes. But, they were much quicker out the blocks in the second half, as after just 16 seconds Chloe Kelly made it to 2-0 and four minutes later, an excellent cross from Alex Greenwood found Alessia Russo, who got in front of her defender and cheekily dinked it past the Korean keeper at the front post.

James’ superb strike in the 78th minute was the icing on the cake for Sarina Wiegman’s side, and more importantly it made sure the Lionesses got their defence of the cup off to the perfect start.

Despite South Korea’s best efforts to stop the European Champions, it turned out to be a comfortable game for the Lionesses and after scoring four goals, they have moved straight to the top of the Arnold Clark Cup standings on goal difference.

In the earlier game Belgium were 2-1 victors over Italy thanks to a late winner from Tessa Wullaert.

The victory also extends England’s remarkable run under Sarina Wiegman, the squad have now gone 674 days without suffering a defeat. The result also saw number one keeper Mary Earps keep another clean sheet. This therefore puts the squad in great form as they continue their preparations ahead of the Womens World Cup in Australia and New Zealand later this year.

Wiegman’s side face Italy next in the cup in Coventry on Sunday (KO is at 3:15pm BST) before ending the tournament in Bristol against Belgium, in what could be the tournament decider depending on how they get on against South Korea.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”338″ heading=”England” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Liverpool and former England defender Gilly Flaherty has announced her retirement from professional football at the age of 31.

The defender holds the record for the most appearances in WSL history with 177.

She started her professional career in 2006 with Arsenal, but she also found success at Chelsea, West Ham and most recently Liverpool after joining the reds in 2022.

The former West Ham captain was with the club for four years before moving to Liverpool last summer.

She made her 176th WSL appearance against Brighton last November, this saw her break former England teammate Jill Scott’s previous record of 175 WSL appearances.

In her 16-year playing career, she has won four WSL titles, seven Women’s FA Cup’s and a UEFA Cup. As well as holding the record for the most appearances, she also scored the first goal in WSL history against Chelsea in 2011.

The 31-year-old has decided to retire for family reasons.

Congrats on your retirement, Gilly Flaherty! ? pic.twitter.com/fE5V7B2Nn7

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) January 12, 2023

Flaherty said: “I’ve taken the decision to retire from professional football. It isn’t a decision I’ve taken lightly but one I’ve reached after speaking with those closest to me,

“Losing my dad just before Christmas has left me heartbroken – for 22 years we shared our love of football and playing wise I don’t want to carry on without him by my side.

“Playing-wise I know the right decision is for me to call it a day. The time is right for me to be around my family and to be nearest to those closest to me.

“I’d like to thank all the managers I’ve played under, from beginning at Millwall, through Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham and now Liverpool,” added Flaherty.

“I’m grateful to have been part of an era before we turned pro, where we had to work as well as play football.

“It’s been an honour to have been there from the very beginning, to have committed my whole career to English football and to the WSL for the past 11 or 12 years. To have witnessed the growth and be a part of that has been truly special.

“Hopefully I’ve had a positive effect on many of those I’ve met in the dressing rooms, training pitches and stadiums along this wonderful journey.”

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”1072″ heading=”News” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Since the Euros the 21-year-old keeper has not been involved with The Lionesses squad, and it’s looking highly unlikely she will ever be selected by Wiegman again.

Hampton has not played for her club Aston Villa since September 25, and was left out by boss Carla Ward on Sunday when they faced Chelsea. Her manager apparently told Hampton to stay away from the ground and stay at home but she decided to attend the game where she watched from the stands.

The Guardian reported “Multiple sources have told the Guardian that Hampton has caused problems with her behaviour and attitude in England age-group teams and at club level. The Football Association, Villa and Hampton’s representatives declined to comment.”

Prior to England’s World Cup qualifiers against Austria and Luxembourg in September, Hampton was absent from the squad. Sarina Wiegman said: “she has some personal issues that she has to solve so for her at this moment it’s better for her to stay at her club”.

But, in The Lionesses most recent international friendly fixtures against the USA and Czech Republic in October, the 21-year-old keeper was missing from the team, and when Wiegman names her squad this week for the upcoming November fixtures, the keeper is expected to be left out the squad yet again.

In terms of her form for Villa this season, Hampton has only made two appearances in her sides opening five games. After joining Villa from Birmingham City in 2021, last season the goalkeeper made 20 appearances, kept 4 clean sheets and conceded 29 goals, meaning she was a key figure in the Villa side and is why she was earning regular call ups to The Lionesses squad.

But despite being fit to play against Chelsea over the weekend Carla Ward said Hampton was left out of the squad “in the best interests of the team”.

It’s currently unknown if we will ever see Hannah Hampton in an England shirt ever again, at least while Sarina Wiegman is in charge. In terms of her situation at Aston Villa, it’s unknown if boss Carla Ward will pick her in squads in the near future, unless Hampton potentially comes forward and apologises for her alleged behaviour and attitude.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”1072″ heading=”News” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Despite not playing for Spain at The Women’s European Championships this summer due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury she suffered just before the tournament. The 28-year-old midfielder has still been awarded the best women’s player in the world.

Last season for Barca out of the 30 league games they played, Putellas scored 18 goals and grabbed 15 assists in 26 appearances, which helped her side win the Spanish league title for the third season running.

And before her injury the midfielder was Barca’s top scorer in the Women’s Champions League with 10 goals in 11 games.

Putellas twice played and scored in front of record-breaking crowds of more than 90,000 fans at the Nou Camp in the Champions League quarter-final and semi-final, where she captained her side to victories. She also scored in the final, but unfortunately for her and her teammates they were denied a second consecutive title, after losing 3-1 to the most successful Women’s Champions League team in history, Olympique Lyon.

On winning the award Putellas said: “I’m very happy to be back here, a year ago I was able to win this prize and it pushed me to want to get even better.

“Without my team-mates this wouldn’t have been possible. I want to thank the technical staff and the coach as well. And to thank everyone involved at the club off the pitch.”

Alexia Putellas wins the Ballon d'Or for the second year in a row ?? pic.twitter.com/sSSv6ZKmul

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 17, 2022

Arsenal striker Beth Mead, who scored 11 goals and grabbed 8 assists in 22 league appearances last season and who was also named the Euro 2022 player of the tournament and was the golden boot winner of the tournament came in second place.

And Chelsea’s Sam Kerr who scored 20 goals in 20 league games for the blues last season came in third for the second consecutive year.

Special mentions must also go to Lionesses defenders Lucy Bronze and Millie Bright who were also nominated. Bronze finished in 10th place while Bright finished in 15th.

Here is the podium for the 2022 Women's Ballon d'Or !#ballondor pic.twitter.com/H8JN2uAhXy

— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@francefootball) October 17, 2022

The top 10 in the Women’s Ballon d’Or were as follows:

1. Alexia Putellas (Barcelona / Spain, midfielder)

2. Beth Mead (Arsenal / England, forward)

3. Sam Kerr (Chelsea / Australia, forward)

4. Lena Oberdorf (Wolfsburg / Germany, midfielder)

5. Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona / Spain, midfielder)

6. Alex Popp (Wolfsburg / Germany, forward)

7. Ada Hegerberg (Lyon /Norway, forward)

8. Wendie Renard (Lyon / France, defender)

9. Catarina Macario (Lyon / United States, midfielder)

10. Lucy Bronze (Barcelona / England, defender)

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”1072″ heading=”News” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

After such an incredible summer of football for The Lionesses which saw them crowned European Champions, they finally return to Wembley tonight and will be looking to continue their unbeaten form under boss Sarina Wiegman. However, standing in their way are the current world champions and the number one ranked side in the world, the USA. A team who haven’t lost a game since the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

In front of a packed Wembley crowd of 80,000+, both sides will be desperate to win and prove who really is the best team in international women’s football.

The USA, who’ve won back-to-back World Cups and four Olympic gold medals have some of the best players in women’s football and will be looking to live up to their number one status once again. The Lionesses on the other hand will be looking to continue their great run of form under new boss Wiegman and show the Americans that they are a side to be feared ahead of the world cup next year. With the likes of Beth Mead, Lauren Hemp, Keira Walsh and Lucy Bronze in the squad, The Lionesses aren’t short of talent either.

And with both sides not losing a game since 2021, it’s set to be a huge blockbuster of a game tonight. In fact it’s been said coming up against the Americans is regarded as the toughest challenge in women’s football, but England will surely rise to the occasion, especially with a huge home crowd supporting them.

Wiegman’s Comments:

Wiegman said: “They (USA) are one of the best teams in the world, they are ranked number one but I think that there are a couple of teams that are really good at the moment, really high level.

“We saw in the Euros that the European game has improved so much and is getting closer and closer and we would really like to show that (against the United States). I think they are now very excited to come to Europe and play top level teams.

“Yes, we want to win but we will not be just thinking about the result, we want to try to dominate the game too.

“We are a team that everyone expects to win but the fans also know that we are playing the USA who are a very good team. It was the same in the euros – before the game, we didn’t know if we were going to win against top level teams but we are part of that top level too and want to win every game.

“We have pressure from ourselves, we want to do well, we want to play our best game every time we go out on the pitch regardless of the opponent so that’s what gives us the internal pressure. When you are trying to play your best game at the highest level, you just want to win but we will have to see what it brings us.”

Team News:

England –

The Lionesses will be without captain Leah Williamson and star striker Alessia Russo after they withdrew from the squad due to injury. However, most of the Euro winning squad remains with the most expensive women’s player in the world Keira Walsh and newly crowned England Women’s player of the year Beth Mead both set to start, it could spell trouble for the US.

Young talents Jess Park and Esme Morgan could make their senior England debuts if they get onto the pitch at Wembley.

USA – 

Out of the 24 players called up in the initial squad, the USA are only missing two players. Taylor Kornieck has pulled out due to injury, and Mallory Pugh has withdrawn due to a family commitment. But, they have star player Megan Rapinoe ready and raring to go as well as former Manchester City midfielder Rose Lavelle also set to start.

Head to head:

The two national sides have faced one another on numerous occasions in the past. In recent years it’s the Americans who have dominated. Firstly when the sides last met in the 2020 SheBelieves cup the USA won 2-0. And more notably in the 2019 Women’s World Cup semi-final the USA won 2-1.

But both teams have developed and achieved great things since they last played one another, so one things for sure this game is definitely not one to be missed.

Overview:

Of course the game is set to be a real blockbuster, why wouldn’t it be? The European champions vs The World champions.

However, regardless of the result, both teams will be standing in solidarity by wearing teal armbands at Wembley tonight in the wake of the devastating National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) abuse report in America that  details the “systematic” abuse and sexual misconduct in women’s soccer.

The horrific report sheds light on alleged misconduct and repeated failures by USA officials to heed warnings and complaints from players.

The summary of the report says: “Our investigation has revealed a league in which abuse and misconduct — verbal and emotional abuse and sexual misconduct — had become systemic, spanning multiple teams, coaches, and victims.”

In a show of unity and common cause, our players will join the @USWNT tomorrow and take to the field wearing teal armbands to stand in solidarity with sexual abuse victims. pic.twitter.com/Jgvvk18gf3

— Lionesses (@Lionesses) October 6, 2022

Key players to look out for:

• Beth Mead (England) – Recently voted England Women’s player of the year, player of the tournament and awarded the golden boot at the Euros and voted Arsenal women’s player of the season. Mead is definitely one to keep an eye on tonight and could be the difference between the sides come 90 minutes. With her skill and sheer determination to score goals and help out her teammates she could cause the American defence some problems tonight.

• Megan Rapinoe (USA) – Even at the age of 37, Megan Rapinoe still plays a crucial part in this USA side. The forward has played 194 times for her side and has scored 62 goals and has bagged 73 assists. Her record and performances against England have always been impressive and she knows how to rattle a few fans along the way. Despite her age she could be a real pain for the England defenders tonight.

The game kicks off at 8pm tonight (BST) and will be live on ITV, coverage begins from 7:30pm. 

After the success of the Euros in England this summer and of course with The Lionesses bringing it home, this WSL season is set to be one to remember with record attendances expected and world class players on show.

Who will win the title this year, which three teams will qualify for Europe and who will unfortunately face relegation?

With the league kicking off tonight with Arsenal hosting Brighton at a sold-out Meadow Park at 7:30pm (BST), below is a team by team guide ahead of the new season including arrivals (from the transfer window) and key players to look out for from each side.

Transfer Market information from Tom Garry, Women’s Football Reporter, The Telegraph

Arsenal

Position finished last season: 2nd

Predicted finish this season: 2nd

Manager Jonas Eidevall and his team will undoubtedly know the title was theirs to be won last season. They only lost one game and they had a better head-to-head record compared to the rest of the top four. But that one loss away to Birmingham City (who were eventually relegated) left The Gunners still looking for their first league triumph since 2019.

It’s expected this season they will once again battle it out for glory with last seasons Champions and London rivals Chelsea yet again, but do they have enough grit and determination to beat them?

Eidevall has received a huge boost going into the new season though as star striker Vivianne Miedema has signed a new contract keeping her in North London. The Gunners have bought in a few new players this summer, but are mainly relying on their squad from last season.

They’ve bought in Kaylan Marckese (goalkeeper from HB Koge), Lina Hurtig (forward from Juventus), Gio Queiroz (forward from FC Barcelona, who has gone out on loan immediately).

Hurtig, Miedema and Mead up front could be a very dangerous trio to look out for.

Key player: Beth Mead

Fresh from winning the Euro’s with England and the Golden Boot at the tournament, the 27-year-old forward will be looking to continue her great form this season. Last season she registered 11 goals and 8 assists in 22 games and after breaking the overall WSL assists record, she will hopefully help her side go one step further this season by winning the title.

Aston Villa

Position finished last season: 9th

Predicted finished this season: 7th/8th

The thing that cost Villa most last season was their lack of goals, they only scored 13 goals in their 22 league games. To progress this season, this is something that must be rectified. New manager Carla Ward may have found the solution by signing versatile England star Rachel Daly from Houston Dash. It’s a surprising signing for Villa as during the Euros Daly played predominantly at left back, however, the 30-year-old was a striker in the USA and Ward sees her as a forward this season. But Ward’s side have had a pretty poor pre season, so they could find themselves in and amongst a relegation battle.

Other summer signings include: Anna Leat (goalkeeper from West Ham), Anna Patten (defender, on loan from Arsenal), Danielle Turner (defender from Everton), Kenza Dali (midfielder from Everton), Kirsty Hanson (forward, on loan from Manchester United), Natasha Harding (forward from Reading) and Simone Magill (striker from Everton).

Key player: Natasha Harding

All eyes will of course be on Rachel Daly after her successes at Houston Dash and for England in the summer. However, Tash Harding who has been in the WSL for the last 5 seasons, could be a big player for boss Carla Ward this season. The welsh international brings her experience, work ethic, goals and assist contributions to the side and she could be pivotal in helping her side potentially finish higher up than some people think this season.

Aston Villa Women have announced the signing of Natasha Harding on a one-year deal

Harding joins Villa having spent the past five seasons at fellow WSL club Reading.

— Sky Sports WSL (@SkySportsWSL) July 12, 2022

Brighton

Position finished last season: 7th

Predicted finish this season: 6th/7th

Brighton had a decent start to last season, but ended the season quite poorly by their standards. Looking at the side, it’s clear that they lack an out and out goal scorer, but they will of course be looking to start the new season brightly and in a positive way like they did last time out. The teams around them have strengthened in depth but with their new additions it’s likely they will have enough to hold a mid table finish.

In the summer window, Brighton have been busy, they have bought in: Rebekah Stott (defender from Bulleen Lions), Jorja Fox (defender, on loan from Chelsea), Poppy Pattinson (left-back from Everton), Park Ye-eun (midfielder from Gyeongju Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power FC), Veatriki Sarri (forward from Birmingham City) and Elisabeth Terland (striker from SK Brand).

Key player: Veatriki Sarri

Summer signing Veatriki Sarri could prove to be a very good addition to Hope Powell’s side this season. Despite being relegated with Birmingham City last season the 24-year-old Greek forward scored 3 goals and grabbed 2 assists in 21 games. She proved that she is too good for the championship and could hopefully this season she can improve even more under the management of Powell and become a player to keep a close eye on.

Our second summer signing! ? #BHAFC pic.twitter.com/aCrPPNIrWC

— Brighton & Hove Albion Women (@BHAFCWomen) July 15, 2022

Chelsea

Position finished last season: 1st

Predicted finish this season: 1st

After winning their third successive WSL title last season, Emma Hayes’ side is quite clearly the team to beat. After keeping hold of their top talents this summer such as Sam Kerr, Fran Kirby and Pernille Harder, The Blues have still massively boosted their squad, in particular, the defence. Their most notable signing being one of the greatest centre backs in the world, Kadeisha Buchanan from Lyon. Strengthening the back line which was already the second best in the league last season, keeps them as hot favourites again but it won’t be easy especially with Hayes’ side being involved in the Champions League too.

The Blues have also bought in: Eve Perisset (right-back from Bordeaux), Katerina Svitkova (midfielder from West Ham), Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (midfielder from BK Hacken), Jelena Cankovic (midfielder from Rosengard) and Lucy Watson (striker from Sheffield Utd, loaned immediately to Charlton).

Key player: Sam Kerr

Despite strengthening the back line, all eyes will of course be on Chelsea’s star forward Sam Kerr. After winning the golden boot last season by scoring 20 goals and also by grabbing 4 assists. The Australian forward will surely keep up her outstanding form for the Blues and fans will be flocking to the grounds to see her live in the flesh this season. If she stays fit, she could be the one to spur Chelsea onto their fourth consecutive league title.

Everton 

Position finished last season: 10th

Predicted finish this season: 6th

It would take a massive effort for The Toffees to finish higher up the table compared to their 10th place finish last season, but their business in the summer transfer window has been impressive to say the least. They have a new coach for the season in Brian Sorensen, who has had a very good pre-season with the squad and he seems to have steadied the team once again. Everton weren’t brilliant last season but with the summer signings and still having former England stars Izzy Christiansen and Toni Duggan in the squad, they have the potential to push on this season.

Their summer signings include: Emily Ramsey (goalkeeper on loan from Manchester Utd), Elise Stenevik (defender from Eskilstuna United), Katrine Veje (left back from Rosengard), Karen Holmgaard (midfielder from Potsdam), Sara Holmgaard (midfielder from Potsdam, but loaned immediately to Fortuna Hjorring), Jess Park (winger on loan from Manchester City), Clare Wheeler (midfielder from Fortuna Hjorring), Aggie Beever-Jones (forward on loan from Chelsea), Gio Queiroz (on loan from Arsenal) and Katja Snoeijs (striker from Bordeaux).

Key player: Jess Park

The young 20-year-old winger being allowed to leave Manchester City on loan was somewhat of a surprise to many. Despite not scoring a goal or grabbing any assists in 13 appearances in the WSL last season, the English winger still received a lot of praise and caught many teams attention. This move to Everton could give her the game time she needs and potentially help her work her way into the England team in the future. She has bags of pace and ability, she just needs to be given the chance to show it on a regular basis.

Official: Jess Park has joined @EvertonWomen on a season-long loan from #ManCity. pic.twitter.com/uUsgcwIWZX

— MCWFC Xtra (@MCWFCXtra) July 15, 2022

Leicester City

Position finished last season: 11th

Predicted finish this season: 12th

Leicester are a team that in the long term looks good, they have a plethora of young exciting players but could be in trouble this season. They just about secured safety over Birmingham last season, and in most of their games they struggled to compete.

It’s rumoured that the club is preparing for a busy January transfer window, but until then their squad is arguably the weakest out of the 12 WSL sides. This is maybe due to their form at the end of last season where they only picked up one point from their final eight games. Within this time they only scored twice and conceded 33 times which is a huge concern going forward.

They did make a few signings in the summer: Erin Simon (defender from Racing Louisville), CJ Bott (left-back from Valerenga), Josie Green (midfielder from Tottenham), Carrie Jones (midfielder on loan from Manchester United), Aileen Whelan (midfielder from Brighton) and Ellen Jones (midfielder from Colorado Buffalos).

Key player: Abbie McManus 

29-year-old central defender Abbie McManus could be vital in her sides success this season. The former Manchester City and United defender made 19 appearances last season and scored 1 goal. But some of her performances defensively were very impressive

Will the Foxes stay up this season?

Liverpool

Winners of championship last season

Predicted finish this season: 11th

After winning the championship last season and therefore achieving promotion back to the WSL, staying up will surely be Liverpool’s main priority. They’ve had a strong pre-season and looking at their squad, they definitely have the ability and strength to keep pushing on. With Matt Beard in charge they have a well respected and experienced WSL manager to help them stay up, maybe they could finish around mid table which would be even better. Liverpool did win back-to-back WSL titles in 2013 and 2014, but have fallen off the radar ever since.

They have made a few strong signings in the summer window: Eartha Cummings (goalkeeper from Charlton), Gilly Flaherty (defender from West Ham), Emma Koivisto (defender from Brighton), Charlotte Wardlaw (midfielder on loan from Chelsea) and Shanice van de Sanden (forward from Wolfsburg).

Key player: Shanice Van de Sanden

After playing for Liverpool in the 2016-17 season and winning the Champions League with Lyon numerous times, having Van de Sanden back in red will surely provide a massive boost to Matt Beards’ side. The forward is known for her pace and ability on the ball. Her career probably hasn’t gone according to plan in recent years, but returning to the WSL and having a good season with Liverpool could potentially propel the 29-year-old back into the Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup but more importantly help keep Liverpool in the WSL for another season.

Shanice van de Sanden will wear the No.19 shirt.

SVS: “In my head I was already waiting for them to come back into the WSL, I was following them everywhere. A lot has changed since I left. I didn’t know Matt [Beard] but after my first phone call I knew I’d sign for Liverpool.” pic.twitter.com/9zSxFRxFwL

— Emma Sanders (@em_sandy) July 16, 2022

Manchester City

Position finished last season: 3rd

Predicted finish this season: 3rd

Manchester City were undoubtedly the most in-form team in the whole of England at the end of the last season. But this summer’s transfer window has seen their starting 11 arguably take a dramatic downgrade. The exit of England internationals Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh (for a world record fee of £400,000) and Georgia Stanway as well as Scotland’s Caroline Weir moving to Real Madrid and Ellen White, Jill Scott and Karen Bardsley all retiring, they seriously have lost some of their greatest players.

But there have been a lot of new arrivals at the club too, a lot of these new arrivals are young talents which maybe signifies a new kind of direction for the club under Gareth Taylor. There is a concern about how quickly these new players will gel with their teammates and how quickly they will get used to the competitiveness of the WSL. Nevertheless this City side remains a huge threat and could end up doing better than we are all expecting. But their main priority will surely be qualifying for Europe come May.

Their summer signings: Sandy MacIver (goalkeeper from Everton), Kerstin Casparij (right-back from FC Twente), Leila Ouahabi Laia Aleixandri (defender from Atletico Madrid), (left-back from Barcelona), Yui Hasegawa (midfielder from West Ham), Mary Fowler (midfielder from Montpellier) and Deyna Castellanos (forward from Atletico Madrid).

Key player: Chloe Kelly

After a horrible injury which reduced the English forward to only 5 appearances in the WSL last season, Chloe Kelly could be a major star for City this time around. The 24-year-old still scored 1 goal and grabbed 3 assists in her 5 appearances last season and of course scored the winning goal for England at the Euros this summer. The winger has received nothing but praise, support and publicity since the euros and could become a crucial player in Man City’s success this season. Manager Gareth Taylor will want to keep her fit and in form as she could be the difference between finishing in a European place or not.

Manchester United

Position finished last season: 4th

Predicted finish this season: 4th

After finishing fourth, three times consecutively Man Utd will surely be determined more than ever to finish in that top three this season. However, knocking out Chelsea, Arsenal or Manchester City will prove a great test, but arguably now more than ever Mark Skinner’s side have the best possible chance especially with the departures at Man City. In order to pile the pressure on City, they needed to have a good transfer window, they did bring in some decent players with good experience however it’s unknown how good they will fair this season.

But with the likes of England stars Mary Earps, Alessia Russo, Ella Toone and the whole squad keep improving season upon season, they have a real good chance of qualifying for Europe. The expectations from fans and the players themselves are very high.

Summer signings: Maya Le Tissier (defender from Brighton), Aissatou Tounkara (defender from Atletico Madrid), Grace Clinton (midfielder from Everton), Adriana Leon (forward from West Ham), Rachel Williams (striker from Tottenham), Lucia Garcia (forward from Athletic Club Bilbao) and Nikita Parris (forward from Arsenal).

Key player: Lucia Garcia 

After arriving from Athletico Bilbao this summer, the spanish forward will be a player to definitely look out for. She scored 63 times in 161 games over six seasons with the Spanish team, and being only 23 is constantly getting better. She did represent Spain at the Euros this summer, she got on the scoresheet in their opening game against Finland. The forward could definitely help Skinner’s side push for Europe especially if she plays alongside England star Alessia Russo. What a pair they could be up top!

Man Utd sign Garcia from Athletic Bilbao
United have announced the signing of Spanish forward Lucia Garcia from Bilbao.

The 23-year old, who represented Spain at the Euros, has agreed a two year contract and she links up with international team-mate Ona Batlle at the club. pic.twitter.com/8XtrCL6V6S

— ZB- AmpleFootball (@zurichbound) July 25, 2022

Reading

Position finished last season: 8th

Predicted finish this season: 8th/9th

Reading are always regarded as the underdogs, but a lot like the clubs around them, staying up for them will surely be the priority this season. They don’t have the wealth compared to the top clubs and with other top clubs injecting more money into the women’s game it’s hard to say how much longer they will stay in the WSL. However, they have a good manager in Kelly Chambers who has held onto the key players within the squad.

Summer signings: Jacqueline Burns (goalkeeper from BK Hacken), Diane Caldwell (defender from Manchester United), Brooke Hendrix (defender from Melbourne Victory), Becky Jane (defender from Charlton), Lauren Wade (midfielder from Glentoran) and Charlie Wellings (striker from Celtic).

Key player: Charlie Wellings

Former Bristol City and Birmingham City striker Charlie Wellings is an excellent signing for Reading this summer, and is arguably quite a bargain. Wellings scored 40 goals in 34 appearances for Celtic last season in all competitions. The 24-year-old has improved massively since being at Birmingham as a youngster and has shown she can be a real threat in front of goal when given the opportunity.

Reading FC Women are delighted to announce the signing of Charlie Wellings ?

Charlie left the SWPL side Celtic for the WSL where she scored 40 goals in 34 appearances helping them to a 3rd place league finish.

Great to have you with us, Charlie! ?#REAWomen #Reading pic.twitter.com/NxOcdTcWZw

— Reading FC Women (@ReadingFCWomen) August 5, 2022

Tottenham Hotspur

Position finished last season: 5th

Predicted finish this season: 5th

Arguably the best of the rest outside the top four last season, Rehanne Skinner’s team exceeded all expectations and could potentially do the same this season. They are the dark horses no doubt, they are well organised and at times are very tough to beat. They just seem to be lacking that out and out goal scorer. Not having a top class striker is arguably the one thing that keeps them out of challenging for a place in Europe.

Their summer signings include: Amy Turner (centre-back from Orlando Pride), Drew Spence (midfielder from Chelsea), Ramona Petzelberger (midfielder from Aston Villa), Ellie Brazil (forward from Brighton), Nikola Karczewska (forward from FC Fleury), Angharad James (midfielder from Orlando Pride) and Celin Bizet Ildhusoy (forward from PSG).

Key player: Drew Spence

Summer signing from Chelsea Drew Spence, could prove to be one of the signings of the summer for Spurs. The 29 year old had been at Chelsea for 7 years and played many times for the side. She may not have been a first choice player but nevertheless Emma Hayes regarded her as a “senior pro”. The midfielder could provide that aggression and power in Tottenham’s midfield this season and maybe help push them into that top four, who knows.

West Ham

Position finished last season: 6th

Predicted finish this season: 9th/10th

West Ham have made a lot of changes this summer, despite making good progress under former manager Olli Harder, he was gone in May and former West Ham men’s player Paul Konchesky, is now their new manager. He’s a new manager to the WSL, so it’s hard to say what his playing style, formation and the gelling of his players will be like. But he did have a busy transfer window. A big arrival for them is Viviane Asseyi, a striker from Bayern Munich who has Champions League experience. This is big for a club like West Ham going forward.

Their other summer signings include: Sophie Hillyerd (goalkeeper from Charlton), Risa Shimizu (right-back from Tokyo Verdy Beleza), Thea Kyvag (wing-back from LSK Kvinner), Kirsty Smith (defender from Manchester United), Jess Ziu (midfielder from Shelbourne), Halle Houssein (midfielder from Arsenal), Keira Flannery(midfielder from Arsenal), Izzy Atkinson (midfielder from Celtic), Honoka Hayashi (midfielder from AIK Football), Alex Hennessy (midfielder from Arsenal) and Lisa Evans (forward from Arsenal).

Key player: Viviane Asseyi

28-year-old french striker Vivianne Asseyi could be a star player for West Ham this season. With the side predicted to finish lower down the table compared to last season, she could be the difference. Asseyi scored 5 times and grabbed 2 assists in 20 appearances for Bayern Munich in the German league last season. She also made 6 appearances in the Champions League and bagged herself a goal too. This kind of experience is valuable to any club, so could Asseyi give The Hammers a real goal scoring threat this season?

West Ham have announced the signing of France international Viviane Asseyi from Bayern Munich??? pic.twitter.com/GMGGAE7NAF

— Womens Transfer News (@womenstransfer) August 2, 2022

So the WSL season is set to be very fascinating, who will come out on top, will it be Chelsea? Arsenal? or will another team rise to the challenge? and who will go down? All will be revealed in May 2023.

But whatever happens, it’s set to be a very entertaining season, and with record breaking attendances expected for all the teams after the success of the Women’s Euros here in England, women’s football will well and truly be on the rise again and the players especially the Lionesses will continue to inspire the next generation of professional female footballers.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”1072″ heading=”News” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Switzerland vs Netherlands

Going into their final group game at Bramall Lane all The Dutch needed to do was avoid defeat, while all the swiss had to do was try and win, which set up an enticing encounter down in Sheffield.

It was The Swiss who started better in the game, a brilliant little touch from Ramona Bachmann fell perfectly to Sandy Maendly whose shot from outside the area was superbly saved by Daphne van Domselaar.

Shortly after that, The Swiss were in trouble. Lineth Beerensteyn found herself clean through on goal, took a heavy touch but was alleged to have been brought down by the Swiss goalkeeper Gaëlle Thalmann, so a penalty kick was awarded. However, after consulting with VAR and looking on the pitch-side monitor the referee decided that the 36-year-old keeper did get a touch on the ball, so the decision was overturned.

Overall, the first half was sluggish, no teams created any real clear cut chances and the scoreline remained 0-0. But the  22,596 fans in attendance – a new record crowd for a European Championship group game not featuring the tournament hosts, were surely hoping for a better second half as both of these sides were desperate to win in order to secure their place in the quarter-finals.

And shortly after the restart it was 0-1 to The Netherlands, a powerful header from Stefanie van der Gragt looked to be heading in at the far post, and in an attempt to clear it off the line Swiss player Ana-Maria Crnogorčević headed into her own net.

Almost immediately after the Dutch went into the lead Switzerland fought back. Again brilliant play from Ramona Bachmann saw her get away from Sherida Spitse before pulling the ball back for her teammate Géraldine Reuteler who calmly finished past van Domselaar and more importantly got her side back into the game.

So, we went into the final ten minutes of the game, and all of a sudden it came to life. An excellent cross from the right hand side by Lynn Wilms saw the Swiss goalkeeper rush out to try and clear, but she misjudged it and Romee Leuchter headed in her first ever goal for her country and what an important goal it was as The Dutch were once again winning the game.

Just minutes later The Dutch scored another two goals to put the icing on the cake and guarantee their place in the quarter finals. Substitute Victoria Pelova got on the end of van der Gragt’s cross and fired in. This did prompt a lengthy VAR check as their was a potential offside but the goal was correctly given. Then again, Leuchter, who only scored her first goal for her country in the 84th minute had another goal after sliding in at the back post to get on the end of Pelova’s scuffed shot.

Sweden vs Portugal

Similar to the situation in Sheffield, at Leigh Sports Village, all the Swedes needed to do was avoid defeat while Portugal had to win to keep their dream alive of getting through to the quarter finals.

But over the 90 minutes in this game The Swedes were ruthless in front of goal and eased their way through to the knockout stages of a major tournament again, by winning 5-0.

The team ranked second in the world showed the Portuguese no mercy as they put the game to bed in the first half by scoring 3 goals.

Manchester City midfielder Filippa Angeldal easily fired her side into the lead after a poor clearance by Portugal goalkeeper Patricia Morais (who was making her first appearance at the tournament) following a corner from Jonna Andersson.

Shortly after a brilliant back heeled pass from Kosovare Asslani put Arsenal’s Stina Blackstenius through on goal, the forward fired it past the Portuguese keeper but unfortunately her goal was ruled out for offside.

And right before half time, again from another set piece, this time a free-kick it was 2-0. Asslani from the right hand side pulled the ball back to the edge of the area for Angeldal whose superb first time shot found the bottom right corner giving Morais no chance and gave the 25-year-old her second goal of the game.

Then deep into added time of the first half, it was 3-0 and pretty much game over as Carole Costa headed into her own net from a corner.

In the second half, the Swedes weren’t quite done. Asslani did make it 4-0 from the penalty spot after Diana Silva hand-balled a cross from a Swedish player in the area. Then to rub salt in the wounds of the Portuguese players, after having two goals ruled out for offside earlier on in the game, Blackstenius fired in her sides fifth goal of the day and secured their place in the quarter-finals.

So, in the end it was Sweden and The Netherlands who progressed from Group C into the quarter finals of the Women’s Euros 2022. Sweden finished top of the group with Netherlands in second. Both sides produced a statement win to take with them as they go into the knockout stage.

Who are they facing?

The Netherlands will take on France (the winners of Group D) in an enthralling fixture at the New York Stadium on Saturday July 23 at 8pm (BST). Sweden will take on the runners up of Group D (which will be decided this evening) at Leigh Sports Village on Friday July 22 at 8pm (BST).

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”7267″ heading=”Women’s Euros” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Former Arsenal midfielder Danielle van de Donk scored a stunning winner as reigning champions the Netherlands won a five goal thriller against Portugal to go top of Group C.

After drawing with Sweden in their Group C opener, the Dutch who were missing star striker Vivianne Miedema due to Covid-19 and a few other key players such as Jackie Groenen due to injury, still cruised into a 2-0 lead.

In an enthralling counter at Leigh Sports Village, Portugal like they did against Switzerland in their group opener, pulled off an outstanding comeback to level the score in the second half before the great dutch midfielder Van de Donk struck a superb dipping shot past Pereira.

In the opening ten minutes of the game Portugal were on top and it seemed like they had stunned the Netherlands. That was until the seventh minute when former Everton midfielder Damaris Egurrola was found unmarked in the box from a brilliant corner put in by Sherida Spitse. The midfielder scored a brilliant looping header to put her side into the lead.

And just nine minutes later the Dutch had a second. Another brilliant corner put in by Spitse took a couple of efforts before finding Stefanie van der Gragt whose effort was cleared poorly by Portugal. The ball then fell to what looked like Lieke Martens who fired a shot towards goal and Van Der Gragt bravely put her head on the line and fired the Netherlands 2-0 up inside 20 minutes.

In the 38th minute, Portugal were given a lifeline after they were awarded a penalty. Diana Silva looked to have slipped over in the process of going forward, but Dominique Janssen clipped the Portuguese forward and after consulting VAR, the referee correctly awarded the penalty kick. Carole Costa stepped up and gave her side a lifeline going into the second half.

Francisco Neto’s Portuguese side came firing out the blocks in the second half, and just two minutes after kicking off they had equalised.

A superb cross from the right hand side by goal scorer Costa, found D.Silva who powerfully headed the ball past Van Domselaar and gave her side and their fans something to really get excited about.

At 2-2, Jill Roord thought she had put the Netherlands back in the lead but her effort was chalked off due to Beerensteyn being offside in the build up.

But in the closing stages of the game there was no denying Danielle Van de Donk’s. Lieke Martens pulled the ball back to the 30-year-old central midfielder who powerfully drove the ball into the top corner to secure her side the win and send them top of the group with only one more group game to go.

Despite the Dutch winning the game, they still aren’t guaranteed to be going through to the quarter finals as Sweden also picked up a win against Switzerland in the earlier kick-off.

And because both Switzerland and Portugal still both sit on one point, it’s all to play for in the final games of Group C which take place on Sunday at 17:00 (BST).

Netherlands take on Switzerland while Sweden face Portugal.

We are in for an interesting climax to Group C as even though the Netherlands and Sweden hold the advantage, The Swiss or The Portuguese could still have the final say on who goes through to the quarter finals.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt 

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”7267″ heading=”Women’s Euros” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

Both Sweden and The Netherlands in good spirits as the points are shared after an exciting encounter in front of a big crowd at Bramall Lane ended 1-1.

In the last two major tournaments The Netherlands may have beaten Sweden both times in the knockout stages, but they will be feeling somewhat relieved to have achieved a draw against the 2021 Olympic finalists.

A record crowd for a women’s euros game that doesn’t involve the host nation of 21,342 got to see two giants on the women’s international stage battle it out in a fixture that could potentially be replicated in the final.

In the opening stages of the game, the fans knew they were in for a thrilling watch. Both teams were up for it as they showed their strength and physicality right from the off.

After 22 minutes, dutch number one goalkeeper Sari Van Veenendaal had to be subbed off due to an injury she sustained after attempting to punch the ball clear as well as colliding with Stefanie van der Gragt. This was a key moment as after the substitution the Swedes began to take control.

They had a chance to take the lead through Kosovare Asslani, who after a ball in from Rolfo and some poor defending from the Dutch, found the ball fall perfectly to her in the box but she fired her shot into the side netting.

But shortly after the Asslani chance it was 1-0 Sweden. A brilliant run down the right hand side from Asslani saw her brilliantly nutmeg dutch defender Aniek Nouwen, dart into the box and superbly cross into the unmarked Jonna Andersson at the back of the area who then fired the ball past Daphne Van Domselaar, who had only just come on as replacement for Veenendaal in the Dutch goal.

So at half-time it was Sweden who were in full control of this match and their defence had done well to keep Vivianne Miedema and Lieke Martens quiet up to this point. A big team talk was needed from Mark Parsons in that dutch changing room.

Into the second half it went, and of course no one can write a team like Holland off in a game like this. And it didn’t take the women in orange long to fight back. In fact it took them just seven minutes and of course it was no surprise to see Vivianne Miedema involved. She finally found her way past the stubborn Swedish defence.

The striker picked up the ball just past the halfway line and superbly dummied past Amanda Ilestedt and went charging forward, for a split second it looked like the attack had stalled after a few failed passes, but after a few ricochet’s the ball fell to Jill Roord whose quick feet saw her fire a shot into the bottom corner of the Swedish net.

As the second half progressed the great Miedema began having more and more of an influence, but her side just couldn’t find the breakthrough.

And as the game drew to a close, both sides had a half chance to win the game, Miedema brilliantly picked out Roord in the area but her touch just let her down at the final stage. And Rolfo went close, but the substitute keeper for The Netherlands Van Domselaar pulled off an excellent save to deny the Barcelona forward the winner for Sweden.

Swedish Manager Peter Gerhardsson on his feelings of only achieving a point: “Somewhere between. The feeling’s always disappointed when you don’t win the game.”

Netherlands coach, Mark Parsons said: “There’s more to come in bringing our attacking qualities because it was fun to see when Viv and others got the ball, Sweden just wanted to drop, and they were afraid. We’ve got to be braver to get those moments of course, but when you lose your captain, and when you lose a centre back – the mindset and the emotions, it’s going to be all over the place.”

In the other fixture in Group C, Portugal drew 2-2 with Switzerland, so everyone is level on points in Group C as it stands going into game two.

The fixtures for Wednesday July 13 are:

Sweden face Switzerland at Bramall Lane (17:00 KO BST)

while Netherlands face Portugal at Leigh Sports Village (20:00 KO BST) – Both games are live on The BBC.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”7267″ heading=”Women’s Euros” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]

[column size=”1/2″][blog type=”timeline” posts=”10″ cats=”34″ heading=”Women’s football” heading_type=”timeline” /][/column]