Manchester City v Chelsea FC - Barclays Women´s Super League

The Breaking Point

Izzy Duddy

Izzy Duddy

5/16/2024

We don't need to tell you that the title race is on. After a dramatic few weeks of fixtures, it's all coming down to the final day. And not only will the winner be determined by the outcome of the game, but it's likely to come down to the goals scored.

So here's your quick-fire guide to what Chelsea and City need to do to secure that Barclay's WSL trophy.

What's the current standing?

Going into Gameweek 22, Chelsea lead the table with 52 points and a 47-point goal difference. Manchester City are hot on their tail, with an equal 52 points but a 45-point goal difference.

That means that, provided both teams win their games on Saturday, Chelsea have the edge on Manchester City.

What are the chances of both teams winning?

They may be leading on points, but a win for both teams this weekend is far from guaranteed. This is the Barclay's WSL, after all.

Chelsea

Despite being ahead on goal difference, thanks to their 8-0 win over Bristol City, Chelsea do (in theory) have the harder fixture this weekend. The Opta Match Predictor has suggested Chelsea have a 50% chance of beating Manchester United, which is nowhere near a safe enough margin for Emma Hayes's team to feel confident. With United having a 25% chance of a win, as well as an equal chance that the two teams will share a point, Chelsea will have to pull out all the stops on Saturday.

And we know that the numbers are not gospel when it comes to football. Man United will be playing at Old Trafford off the back of lifting the FA Cup at Wembley after a triumphant 4-0 win against Spurs. Chelsea beat Spurs midweek in the WSL, but only by one goal. Additionally, last time these teams met, it was United that emerged victorius.

Could this recent history between the two teams play mind games with Chelsea at the weekend?

Manchester City

Manchester City will be feeling marginally more confident going into their game against Aston Villa on Saturday. They have a 71% win prediction, and although it's an away fixture, Aston Villa actually have conceded more goals at home this season than away. This should give City a chance to rack up those all-important goals and surpass Chelsea's goal difference.

In fact, the goalkeepers will be key on Saturday. The goalkeeper with the most clean sheets in the WSL is City's Khiara Keating, whereas Mary Earps was second. That's right - the Mary Earps that's facing Chelsea.

How can I keep up with the table during the games?

You might need a couple of TVs for the ultimate experience. But rest assured, the Fantasy WSL social feeds will keep you updated in real-time, so you can easily follow the title race play outl live. Broadcasters will also be updating on the scores in other games because every team kicks off at the same time on Saturday, so no matter which match you're watching, you'll stay in the know.