Chelsea restore resilience - are they title contenders again?
Doubt crept in at Chelsea last season when they lost their Women's Super League crown - but early signs in this campaign suggest they have regained their spark for another challenge.
Chelsea have turned their season around, displaying resilience and a newfound title-contender status. They extended their unbeaten run to 12 games with a 1-0 victory over rivals Arsenal, sitting just two points behind leaders Manchester City. Under Sonia Bompastor's leadership, Chelsea has shown a willingness to dig deep, control the game without the ball, and defend with composure.
Alyssa Thompson was the match-winner, with a goal scored through a parried effort by Keira Walsh. Chelsea's new striker, Melvine Malard, has been instrumental in their resurgence, providing goals and movement. Full-back Ellie Carpenter has also impressed with her overlapping runs. The team's improved mentality and cohesion have led to better results, with Walsh praising her teammates for working together in high and low moments.
Chelsea's strong defense, with back-to-back clean sheets, has been a key factor in their success. With Manchester City facing Arsenal next, Chelsea could be the team to challenge for the WSL title.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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