Chelsea 1-1 Aston Villa: Blues' WSL title hopes already under scrutiny
Chelsea Women drew 1-1 against Aston Villa in their Women's Super League opener despite dominating possession and shot attempts. The result has raised early concerns about the team's clinical finishing and their ability to compete for the title.
Why it matters
The match highlights the pressure on top-tier clubs to maintain high standards and the competitive parity emerging in the Women's Super League.
Figure caption, Own goal gifts Aston Villa a late point to end in a draw against Chelsea
BBC Sport women’s football news reporter at Stamford Bridge Published 5 September 2026 With 11 minutes remaining, Chelsea appeared to be cruising to victory in their Women's Super League opener against Aston Villa.
Yet, after 57 touches in the opposition box, 23 shots inside the area, hitting the crossbar and having another goal disallowed for offside, somehow they drew 1-1.
The statistics are alarming given they did everything right to win, except score more.
It is an issue that has reared its head on several occasions during manager Sonia Bompastor's time in charge and is why many have tipped rivals Arsenal to win the title this season.
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