Maika Hamano, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Sandy Baltimore were all on the scoresheet as the champions of England kept up their fine form
Chelsea continued their perfect start to the new Women's Super League season on Sunday with an eventful 5-2 win over London rivals Tottenham. It wasn't a game without obstacle for the Blues, who were without Lauren James due to injury and were also left dismayed by Spurs' first half equaliser, which Hannah Hampton was convinced she had kept out. But the champions of England persevered and emerged with all three points ahead of the international break.
The incident that will be talked about most from this game came midway through the first half, after Maika Hamano had already given Chelsea the lead. Spurs full-back Amanda Nilden spotted Hampton drifting to her left for the anticipated cross and went for goal, and the assistant flagged to signal that her effort had crossed the line despite the goalkeeper's best efforts. It was to the dismay of Hampton, who was booked for her protestations, and suddenly the visitors were back in the game.
Even when Nilden got on the scoresheet at the other end, inadvertently flicking Guro Reiten's corner into her own net, things were tight and competitive - until a late flurry from the champions. Rytting Kaneryd's volley in the 70th minute will be a goal of the season contender, summer signing Sandy Baltimore was there to convert when Reiten's penalty hit the post a few minutes later and then - after Eveliina Summanen pulled another back for Spurs with a great free-kick - Rytting Kaneryd put the gloss on it all, adding a late fifth with an emphatic finish.
It's a result that sends the Blues into the break on a high, with four wins from their first four WSL games as they pursue a sixth successive league title and a first under new head coach Sonia Bompastor.
Chelsea’s Dominance in the WSL
The new Women's Super League marks the start of a new era for reigning champions Chelsea, with long-serving boss Emma Hayes having departed in summer to start a new adventure with the USA Women's team.
Last year they just about did enough to claim the title on goal difference ahead of Manchester City, while Arsenal will again hope to make it a three-horse race for the WSL title. Meanwhile Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham will hope to progress after further rebuilding this summer.
Crystal Palace were promoted to replace Bristol City in the top flight, while on a wider note, the league is now under the management and operation of a new organisation set up to lead women's football towards further growth and progression, with Nikki Doucet overseeing both the WSL and Championship in a new phase for the game.
Tottenham’s Struggle For a Win
It doesn’t get any easier for Spurs today.
Tottenham Hotspur Men had a great London Derby on Saturday. Tottenham Hotspur Women have a London Derby of their own... but it’s going to be a much bigger challenge. Spurs head to Kingsmeadow to face undefeated and five time reigning WSL champions Chelsea today under the lights on the back of a two match losing streak and an injury crisis.
I’ve been surprised by Spurs in the past, but this one could get ugly. Chelsea are (again) hella good and well managed, and Spurs are still trying to find their feet after two losses and a draw in their last three league matches. Maite Oroz is currently out injured for the next few weeks, and there are questions over the fitness of Haley Raso and Amanda Nilden. However, we might get to actually see Ella Morris in action; she hasn’t made her club debut yet after signing this summer due to a preseason injury.
Either way it’s going to be a long, long day in South London if Spurs can’t firm up their defense. That said, they’ve beaten Manchester City and Arsenal in past years... maybe they’ll give us a surprise today!
Key Takeaways
Here are some key points from the game:
- Chelsea's dominance in the Women's Super League is a testament to their squad depth and tactical prowess under new head coach Sonia Bompastor.
- Tottenham's current struggle for a win is a cause for concern, with injuries playing a role in their recent performances.
- This match highlighted the exciting talent that exists in the WSL, with Johanna Rytting Kaneryd's performance being a prime example.
Chelsea’s Game Changing Line-up
Sonia Bompastor has shuffled her pack again today for the visit of Tottenham, making seven changes to her starting XI.
That is the same number of alterations our head coach made for our 3-1 victory against Twente in the Netherlands on Thursday night.
Today, Hannah Hampton returns in goal, and ahead of her Lucy Bronze and captain Millie Bright come back in.
Central midfield contains Erin Cuthbert and Sjoeke Nusken, with Wieke Kaptein and Oriane Jean-Francois making way.
Guro Reiten, who scored her 50th Chelsea goal in midweek off the bench, is selected alongside Mayra Ramirez and Maika Hamano in attack. Hamano keeps her place after her stunning goal on Thursday. The other players to retain their spot in the side are Kadeisha Buchanan, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Sandy Baltimore.
Looking Ahead
The win over Tottenham sends a strong message to the rest of the WSL. Chelsea is in a strong position to challenge for the title again this season, with a talented squad and a new manager who is already making her mark. Tottenham will need to find a way to turn things around if they want to challenge for a top-half finish. It will be interesting to see how both teams fare in their upcoming matches, and who will emerge as the dominant force in the Women's Super League.
TV: Sky Sports (UK)Stream: ESPN+ (USA)
