USWNT abroad: Emily Fox starts fast as Alyssa Thompson's Chelsea draw and Phallon Tullis-Joyce's United lose | OneFootball

Emily Fox helped Arsenal begin with victory, while Chelsea and Manchester United hit early bumps as USWNT players resumed club duty in England and France.

As reported by Goal.com, Chelsea controlled long spells yet drew 1-1 with Aston Villa. Alyssa Thompson started wide, found good positions, but lacked the finish. Naomi Girma was an unused substitute.

With Millie Bright, Guro Reiten and Sam Kerr gone, year two brings opportunity and pressure for Thompson. She led Chelsea with seven league goals last season.

Fox’s reliability underpinned Arsenal’s 1-0 win at Brighton and Hove Albion. Stationed at full-back, she helped the Gunners press high and break with numbers. Since arriving in 2024, she has offered balance at both ends.

Sam Coffey returned from a knee injury in Manchester City’s 3-1 win over Birmingham City. She replaced Laura Blindkilde Brown in the 73rd minute, a welcome step after a disrupted start. Her comeback could aid Emma Hayes, with depth tested against Brazil in June.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce’s campaign began with a 2-1 loss for Manchester United. After early saves, she conceded from a corner in the eighth minute, then United were undone again late on in the 82nd. There is still room for improvement in her footwork and distribution as she pushes for the USWNT number one spot.

In France, Lily Yohannes assumed the American mantle at OL Lyonnes after Lindsey Heaps left for Denver Summit FC. The midfielder started and played a key part in a 7-1 win over Fleury.

Source: Goal.com

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