WSL champions Chelsea kick-off season with win over City | OneFootball

The WSL returned in familiar fashion with champions Chelsea beginning the 2025/26 with a 2-1 win.

Stamford Bridge hosted the game between Sonia Bompastor's side and an opponent that will be hoping to challenge this season as Andrée Jeglertz oversaw his first game in charge of Manchester City.

New arrival Alyssa Thompson from Angel City was unveiled to fans before the game and the American was able to see her new team take the lead with just over a half hour gone.

Debutant Ellie Carpenter was released down the right and showed her pace before putting in a low cross that Aggie Beever-Jones was able to convert.

It was down the right side that Chelsea doubled their lead in the 64th minute, this time it was Wieke Kaptein's ball that Maika Hamano fired past her compatriot, Ayaka Yamashita.

The visitors pulled one back soon after with Alex Greenwood' s free-kick was diverted into the net by Niamh Charles.

Andrée Jeglertz had injury concerns to worry about too. Youngster Lily Murphy had to be stretchered off while Alex Greenwood also had to be substituted late on.

In truth, the home side were comfortable winners and look like they will be the team to beat once again this season.