Chelsea’s reign at the top of English women’s football rolled on, as they sealed a record-extending sixth consecutive Women’s Super League title with a gritty 1-0 win over Manchester United made even sweeter by Arsenal’s dramatic stumble earlier in the day.
What was meant to be a coronation against Spurs on Sunday turned into a surprise midweek celebration after Arsenal’s shock 5-2 defeat to Aston Villa handed Chelsea a golden opportunity. Sonia Bompastor’s side grabbed it with both hands, securing the title with two games to spare.
“It feels a little bit unreal,” Bompastor admitted. “I wasn’t expecting Arsenal to drop points tonight.” The Chelsea boss, who joined from Lyon last summer, has now delivered silverware in both domestic competitions in her debut season and with a domestic treble still in sight.
Despite knowing a draw would be enough, Bompastor deliberately kept Arsenal’s result from her players before kickoff. “I wanted to win the game, not let them feel too comfortable,” she explained. That competitive edge showed, as Chelsea edged past a stubborn United side who had their own top-three ambitions dented.
The Blues could now finish the campaign unbeaten and eclipse the WSL points record they set in 2022-23. “People say it’s too easy for Chelsea,” said Bompastor. “Beating City, Arsenal, and United twice each? That’s not easy, it’s unbelievable.”
Chelsea’s relentless standards have been driven by their manager’s demanding mindset. “I never let my players breathe,” she said. “When you want to be the best, that’s the mentality you need.”
They’ll need that edge again when they face United at Wembley in the FA Cup final on May 18.
