Fixture Fix

The WSL will release the fixture schedule today, Monday July 22nd. You can sync the schedule to your calendar here. Let us know what match you can’t wait to see!

THE OLYMPICS START THIS WEEK!!! Sorry for shouting!

The 2024 Paris Olympics will feature an exciting women's soccer tournament with 12 teams, including the USA under new coach Emma Hayes, World Cup champions Spain, and defending gold medalists Canada. LFG!!! The competition is divided into three groups, with matches starting on July 25. Key players to watch include Linda Caicedo of Colombia, Zambia's Barbra Banda, and Brazil's Marta. The tournament promises thrilling encounters, such as France vs. Colombia and USA vs. Australia, and will culminate with the gold medal match on August 10. Check out the groups and schedule!

Matilda’s Maleta MIA

The Matilda’s, Australia's women's soccer team, has landed in Paris, but unfortunately, some of their luggage decided to take a detour, including essential medical equipment stuck sunbathing in Spain. With their first match against Germany in Marseille just four days away, team chief Anna Meares confirmed the players have their training and playing kits, but personal items and crucial medical supplies are still enjoying the Spanish siesta. "It's a bit of a travel blooper," Meares quipped, as officials scramble to replace items like tape strapping and resuscitation kits locally. This isn't the team's first packing predicament; earlier this month, a ship carrying their uniforms played bumper boats near Gibraltar. Paris may be the City of Light, but for now, it’s also the city of light luggage.

Oberdorf's Olympic Dream Deferred

Lena Oberdorf, the 22-year-old Bayern Munich star, will miss the Olympics after suffering an ACL injury during Germany's Euro 2025 qualifiers against Austria. The injury occurred during a match where Germany was leading comfortably. This setback is particularly tough as Germany prepares to face strong teams in the Olympics. Unfortunately, Oberdorf's injury is part of a troubling trend, with dozens of ACL injuries affecting women's football players in recent years.

WSL Teams Making Big Moves to Bigger Venues

Next season, Arsenal Women and Aston Villa Women are leveling up their home game experience! Arsenal’s women will call the Emirates Stadium their main home, thrilling fans with potential sell-outs and record-breaking crowds. Meanwhile, Aston Villa Women are trading in Walsall’s Bescot Stadium for the historic Villa Park, giving their supporters a grander stage. Chelsea Women will also be playing more of their games at Stamford Bridge, adding to the excitement. These significant venue upgrades reflect the incredible growth of the women’s game, paving the way for even more spectacular developments in the future.

Pixie Dust and Goals: Angel City FC's $250M Disney Adventure

Angel City FC has become the highest-valued women’s sports team globally after Disney CEO Bob Iger and his wife, Willow Bay, acquired a controlling stake, valuing the club at a record-breaking $250 million. The sale, approved by the club’s Board of Directors, is set to close within 30 to 60 days and includes an additional $50 million investment for the team's growth. Founded in 2020 by Natalie Portman and others, Angel City FC has been a leader in NWSL attendance, revenue, and season ticket membership, with a star-studded roster featuring players like Christen Press and Sydney Leroux.

EURO 2025 Qualifiers: The Road to Switzerland Heats Up!

Who remembers Alessia Russo’s back heal? Well, it’s about that time again. The EURO 2025 is right around the corner. With England, France, Spain, Germany, Denmark, Iceland, Italy, and the Netherlands already securing their spots, the action now shifts to the play-offs where Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland are vying for the remaining places. Scotland faces Hungary with a potential second-round clash against Finland, while Wales takes on Slovakia and could meet the Republic of Ireland in a dramatic final showdown if both advance. Northern Ireland goes head-to-head with Croatia, aiming for a final match against Norway or Albania. Notably, the Republic of Ireland ended their qualifying campaign on a high with a stunning 3-1 victory over France. YES! You read that correctly! IRELAND BEAT FRANCE!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Check out the EUROS play-off schedule.

"Exposé Reveals Toxic Culture in 1990s Irish Women's Soccer"

For over two years, a joint investigation by RTÉ and the Sunday Independent has exposed a toxic culture in 1990s Irish women's soccer. Former players reveal predatory behavior and homophobia from their head coach, contributing to an unsafe environment in the national team. A documentary detailed these disturbing allegations, highlighting the Football Association of Ireland's neglect of women's football. The coach in question denies all accusations but was recently issued a 'stand down' notice by the FAI following the investigation.

Squad Shake-Ups

The women's football transfer window ihas been bonkers this summer! With trades and transfers no one could have predicted last year. Arsenal has boosted their attack by signing Mariona Caldentey from Barcelona, while Chelsea made headlines by bringing in England's star defender Lucy Bronze. Juventus added flair with the signing of Alisha Lehmann, Vianne Miedema has joined Manchester City, and Brighton landed Fran Kirby from Chelsea. In a notable move, Mary Earps left Manchester United for PSG, and Barcelona signed rising star Kika Nazareth from Benfica.

This summer's transfer activity isn't just about big names; it's also about big changes. Clubs are now more willing to pay for top talent, with Liverpool breaking their club record to sign Canadian forward Olivia Smith for £210,000. Players are negotiating better deals, including release clauses and option-to-buy agreements, making the transfer market more exciting and strategic. These signings are shaking up leagues and setting the scene for some fun matches!

Sock Gate and Kerr's Hilarious Jab

Arsenal unveiled their new kits this week, with Katie McCabe flaunting the stylish uniform on Instagram. Sam Kerr couldn't resist a cheeky jab, commenting, “At least you won’t get the socks wrong this time!” This playful banter comes after the Women's Super League match between Chelsea and Arsenal faced a 30-minute delay due to a sock color debacle. Both teams showed up in white socks, but regulations demanded different colors. In a hilarious scramble, Arsenal had to borrow black socks from Chelsea’s merchandise store, taping over the logos. Let's hope they double-check the kits next time!

The Offsides Rule Explained

For Every Fan Who's Ever Asked, 'What Does Offsides Even Mean?