European champions Arsenal got off to a winning start in the Women’s Super League – but were initially tested by big-spending newcomers London City Lionesses.
It promised to be a fascinating afternoon at Emirates Stadium with promoted London City arriving as a relatively unknown outfit, having made a major impact in this summer’s transfer window.
They ripped up the script when they took the lead through captain Kosovare Asllani, carefully placing the ball into the bottom right corner from the penalty spot after Arsenal defender Katie Reid brought her down in the box.
But normal service resumed when Arsenal regained control and debutant Olivia Smith – brought in as the world’s first £1m female signing – ghosted through midfield and stunned supporters with a powerful long-range goal.
That sparked a response from Arsenal and they were 2-1 up when England’s Euro 2025 hero Chloe Kelly poked the ball over the line from close range on the brink of half-time.
London City continued to compete for large periods, but Arsenal’s squad depth eventually showed as substitutes Stina Blackstenius and Frida Maanum came on to wrap things up, adding a goal each in the final 10 minutes.
