The Women's Super League (WSL) is back with a bang as Arsenal hosted Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, December 6, 2025. After the final international break of the year and a round of League Cup fixtures, the WSL returns with Arsenal looking to get their title challenge back on track.

The Gunners are eager to close the gap on their title rivals, especially after a slow start to the season that saw them win just four of their first nine league games, trailing leaders Manchester City by seven points. Meanwhile, Liverpool is aiming for their first league victory of the campaign.

Kick-off was scheduled for 12pm GMT.

Arsenal's starting lineup featured Anneke Borbe making her debut, with Emily Fox, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Steph Catley, and Taylor Hinds in defense. The midfield comprised Kyra Cooney-Cross, Mariona Caldentey, and Frida Maanum, while the attack was led by Beth Mead, Olivia Smith, and Alessia Russo. The substitutes included Amy Liddiard, Laia Codina, Leah Williamson, Kim Little, Katie McCabe, Caitlin Foord, Victoria Pelova, Jenna Nighswonger, and Stina Blackstenius.

Liverpool's starting lineup included Faye Kirby in goal, with Lucy Parry, Hannah Silcock, Jenna Clark, and Gemma Evans in defense. The midfield consisted of Lily Woodham, Fūka Nagano, and Kirsty Maclean, while Cornelia Kapocs, Mia Enderby, and Beata Olsson led the attack. The substitutes were Rachael Laws, Leanne Kiernan, Sofie Lundgaard, Alejandra Bernabé, and Maizie Trueman. Liverpool had only five players on the bench, meaning that even a single injury could seriously impact their options during the match.

Renée Slegers was boosted by the return of Leah Williamson and captain Kim Little. However, Chloe Kelly and first-choice goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar were unavailable due to injury. Liverpool was without Grace Fisk, who picked up a calf injury while on international duty, and Sam Kerr, who is nursing a slight stress fracture.

Going into the game, Liverpool was in a difficult position, potentially becoming the first team since Leicester in 2022/2023 to fail to win any of their opening nine games. However, Liverpool had shown signs of improvement before the international break, including securing a point against Chelsea in their last WSL match. Beata Olsson has been in good form for Liverpool, scoring in each of her last three WSL starts and each of her last four appearances in all competitions.

Kirsty Dowle was the match official for the game. Arsenal had not conceded a goal in the two previous matches Dowle officiated this season.