1
Same old Arsenal problems
Arsenal’s coach Renée Slegers faces a harsh reality: her side lacked killer instinct in a 1-0 loss to Chelsea. They pressed early, yet only two of 18 shots tested Hannah Hampton. Wasteful chances cost them as Chelsea fired five of eight on target, with Alyssa Thompson scoring before the break. “I wanted to keep it away from the players because they can finish and they’ll reap the rewards,” Slegers said. The remedy must come fast. Sophie Downey
Match report: Chelsea 1-0 Arsenal
2
Putellas finds her rhythm
Alexia Putellas finally breathed easy as her strike slipped past Brighton keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. The Spanish star, who joined London City Lionesses in July, took time to settle, but her 2-0 win showcased her control from midfield. She crafted the most chances and netted a goal that could spark further progress. Brighton showed flashes but lacked a true striker, a flaw that has lingered all season. SD
3
Liverpool rave about Ramos
Natalia Ramos’ arrival at Liverpool proved a masterstroke. The former Tenerife midfielder dazzled with creativity, energy and a set‑piece assist in a 2-0 victory. After eight years abroad, she quickly became a fan favourite. “She brings such personality,” head coach Gareth Taylor praised. For my money, her humility and hunger make her a standout addition at Anfield. Tom Garry
Match report: Liverpool 2-0 Everton
Victoria Pelova is shaping up as the Tottenham signing fans hoped for. After a brace against Crystal Palace, she added another double in a 4-0 rout of Aston Villa. Her movement and pressing lifted Spurs, who fired 15 first‑half shots before finding the net after the break. “She sets the tone,” manager Martin Ho noted, highlighting her attitude under pressure. Confidence is returning, and the freedom around her is unlocking her best. Mitul Samji
5
Midweek tonic pays off for United
Manchester United surged to a 10-1 win over Sheffield United in the Subway Players Cup, snapping a winless streak since March. The confidence boost spilled into the league, where they edged West Ham 2-1 despite a congested schedule. West Ham’s league losing streak stretched to seven. For Eva Olid, it marked her first English league victory. TG
6
Charlton show signs of improvement
Charlton endured a fourth straight WSL loss but left Manchester City with renewed belief. Despite a 1-0 defeat, they showed grit, sticking to defensive fundamentals after a call from coach Karen Hills. With just 25% possession, their structure and effort stood out. “I’m so proud of them,” Hills said, noting the players embraced the plan and executed it fully. SD
7
Hurtré makes mark despite Blues’ struggles. Can she keep the pace as the race heats up?
Océane Hurtré vaulted to joint‑top of the Golden Boot race, netting a brace for Birmingham against Crystal Palace. She opened scoring within a minute, curling a left‑foot shot, then added a second from a tight angle at 33 minutes. The 22‑year‑old now sits on four goals, level with Pelova and Khadija Shaw, even though Birmingham have yet to win. After surrendering a lead, they salvaged a 3‑3 draw. “It’s not easy, but we want to win,” Hurtré said.