Chelsea Women's player ratings vs Man City: Erin Cuthbert nods in a dramatic late winner to rescue underperforming Lionesses star Niamh Charles as the composed WSL champions clinch a thrilling victory.
Aggie Beever-Jones’ equalizer helped Sonia Bompastor’s side regain momentum, making a sixth consecutive league title seem all but certain.
Chelsea staged a dramatic comeback against Manchester City on Sunday, with goals from Beever-Jones and Erin Cuthbert securing a crucial 2-1 victory. The win further tightened their grip on the Women’s Super League title race. Facing a City side that had recently knocked them out of the Champions League, the Blues risked losing ground, especially after Kerolin put the hosts ahead in the first half. However, Chelsea displayed resilience and depth to turn the game around.
At halftime, a win seemed unlikely for Chelsea, as City dominated the opening 45 minutes. Kerolin was a constant threat down the left, causing problems for Niamh Charles and eventually breaking the deadlock. The Brazilian also played a role in the game’s most controversial moment when she was fouled by Millie Bright on the edge of the box. Jess Park fired the loose ball into the top corner, but the whistle had already gone for a free kick, from which Yui Hasegawa struck the crossbar.
Despite a shaky first half, Chelsea responded strongly after the break. Beever-Jones equalized just five minutes into the second half, shifting the momentum. City goalkeeper Khiara Keating pulled off crucial saves to deny Wieke Kaptein and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, but she couldn’t stop Cuthbert’s powerful header late on, sealing Chelsea’s victory. The result keeps Bompastor’s side eight points clear at the top with only five games remaining.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Hannah Hampton (6/10):
Had no clear sight of the goal and couldn’t prevent it. Handled everything else well and was composed in possession.
Ashley Lawrence (6/10):
Engaged in a tough duel with Park, winning and losing battles but managing to limit her influence. Delivered a great cross for Cuthbert’s decisive goal.
Lucy Bronze (6/10):
Adapted well to an unfamiliar role and provided solid defensive coverage.
Millie Bright (5/10):
Struggled to contain Kerolin, who frequently got past Charles, making the first half particularly challenging.
Niamh Charles (4/10):
Had a tough time against Kerolin, who consistently got past her. Improved after halftime but was still exposed, including in the build-up to the opener.
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Midfield
Oriane Jean-Francois (6/10):
Distributed the ball efficiently and became more effective in pressing as the match progressed.
Wieke Kaptein (8/10):
Played a key role in Chelsea’s attacking moves, demonstrating excellent movement and vision.
Maika Hamano (5/10):
Worked hard defensively and looked to spark creativity but was occasionally careless with possession. Substituted before the hour mark.
Attack
Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (8/10):
Had a huge impact as the game progressed, playing a key role in Chelsea’s second-half improvement. Troubled Layzell throughout and delivered quality final passes.
Aggie Beever-Jones (7/10):
Finished her first real opportunity with precision. Played a key role in the build-up to that goal and contributed to several attacking moves.
Lauren James (7/10):
Chelsea’s most dangerous player in the first half, consistently looking to create chances. Maintained her influence in the second half and put in strong defensive work.
Subs & Manager
Erin Cuthbert (8/10):
Added composure and toughness to Chelsea’s midfield before netting a superb late winner.
Mayra Ramirez (5/10):
Struggled to make the impact Bompastor was looking for.
Keira Walsh (6/10):
Helped Chelsea gain better control after coming on.
Mia Fishel (N/A):
Made her long-awaited return from injury in the closing minutes.
Catarina Macario (N/A):
Came on as a late substitute.
Sonia Bompastor (8/10):
Chose to stick with her starting XI at halftime, and it paid off as they equalized before she introduced key game-changers like Cuthbert. Adjusted tactics well to limit City’s attacking threat, particularly by restricting Kerolin’s influence.
