The 2025-26 Women's Super League (WSL) season kicks off with a blockbuster match as Chelsea Women host Manchester City Women at Kingsmeadow on Friday. All eyes are on Chelsea as they begin their title defense, aiming for a record-extending eighth consecutive WSL title. Meanwhile, Manchester City seeks their first league championship since 2016, hoping to dethrone the Blues.
Chelsea is coming off a historic 2024-25 season where they achieved a domestic treble, winning the WSL, FA Cup, and League Cup under the guidance of manager Sonia Bompastor. They also reached the semi-finals of the Women's Champions League. With a strong squad and strategic reinforcements, including right-back Ellie Carpenter, forward Mara Alber, and goalkeeping duo Livia Peng and Becky Spencer, Chelsea is determined to continue their dominance. The Blues are currently on a 25-match unbeaten streak in the WSL since May 2024.
Manchester City, on the other hand, is looking for a significant improvement after a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw them miss out on Champions League qualification. New manager Andrée Jeglertz aims to revitalize the team and challenge Chelsea's supremacy. Despite the absence of key defender Rebecca Knaak due to injury, the return of forward Bunny Shaw from injury is a major boost for City's attack. The Citizens have also added Grace Clinton to their ranks, who could make her debut in this match.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Chelsea will miss the presence of Lauren James, who is still recovering from an injury sustained during England's Euro 2025 campaign. Mayra Ramírez is also sidelined with a hamstring injury. However, there is positive news as Sam Kerr is set to make her long-awaited return from an ACL injury and is included in the squad.
Based on recent reports, the predicted lineups are:
Predictions and Analysis
Chelsea has a strong record against Manchester City, having won three of their four meetings in 2025. They are also near-unbeatable at Kingsmeadow. Chelsea's impressive form, especially at home, makes them the favorites for this match. However, Manchester City, with their strengthened attack and new coach, will be looking to cause an upset.
Bookmakers favor Chelsea to win, with Ladbrokes giving them a 60.6% probability. Opta's supercomputer gives Chelsea a 72.3% chance of success in the WSL this season, with Manchester City at 13.7%. A bet builder tip suggests a Chelsea win with a -1 handicap, both teams to score, and Catarina Macario to score anytime.
Despite missing key players, Chelsea's squad depth and home advantage give them the edge. Manchester City's recent form has been mixed, and they will need to improve defensively to challenge the reigning champions.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Manchester City.
