After an opening weekend that saw new contenders arrive on the scene and old ones flatter to deceive, Sky Sports analyses the key talking points from the opening fixtures of the 2026/27 Women's Super League. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Manchester City took some time to find their usual standards but after the nerves were settled by Mary Fowler's opener, they quickly reminded everyone why they are champions and why they will be well amongst the title race once more. Fowler's chance was gifted to them by Birmingham but the precision made the difference.
Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw rising highest on two occasions to glance home her double has already set the tone for another goal-laden campaign. There is more to come from City, as Jade Rose's error in the 90th minute highlighted, but the fact they can win so emphatically while not at their best will strike fear in the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea as we settle in for another enthralling WSL season. Like Manchester City, Arsenal were short on their usual standards in front of goal.
Alessia Russo and Stina Blackstenius both squandered chances from close range but it looks as if Renee Slegers has a few new names to rely on now. It has been a summer of change at the club but new signings Lisa Baum and Georgia Stanway stood out and were duly needed in the narrow win against Brighton. Baum introduced herself in perfect fashion with her emphatic opener after dancing into the box.
She then stung the hands of Chiamaka Nnadozie with a similar effort after cutting in from the left during the second half. Despite her age, Baum displays confidence and talent beyond her years and looks ready-made for the WSL. Meanwhile, Stanway settled into her role as if she had never left the top flight of English football.
The Lionesses midfielder was the first midfielder in history to record 100+ passes on their league debut for a club and dictated play from the middle of the pitch throughout. There is more to come from Arsenal and they will need their star players to get up to speed quickly if they are to keep pace with City - but for now, it looks like the reinforcements they have added are ready to contribute. A lot of eyes would’ve been on Chelsea to start the season strongly.
For the first time since 2019, they started a WSL campaign not as defending champions. A statement of intent was needed. The same can also be said of Manchester United.
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