After a hard-fought battle at Prenton Park, Chelsea's title hopes are evaporating. The Opta supercomputer is now putting Manchester City at a 90.7% chance of winning the Women's Super League this season - and even Emma Hayes seems to admit that the title has gotten away from them this year.
But as we approach the penultimate gameweek of the season, there's more at stake than just the trophy. We've crunched the numbers for you because - believe me - it's going to be stressful.
The fight for second place
Chelsea's defeat to Liverpool may have reduced their odds of winning the league to 10%, but with the table the way it is, holding on to second place is equally important. The team that comes second in the WSL is automatically put through to the second round of the UEFA Women's Champions League qualifiers next season, where they play a two-legged play-off. The winner will progress to the group stage, where they join the reigning WSL champions, who qualify for the groups automatically.
The team that comes third, however, qualifies for the Champions League but is entered into the first round, meaning they must beat two teams before qualifying for the group stage. Many will remember that it was in this situation position that Arsenal lost to Paris FC shortly after the World Cup, knocking them out of the qualifiers in a shock exit.
The good news for Chelsea is that they're looking pretty safe in second. They are two points ahead of third-place Arsenal with a game in hand. Arsenal are also up against Manchester City this weekend, whereas Chelsea have relegated side Bristol City at home.
Still, this is the Barclays WSL - anything could happen.
Just when you thought you'd had all the WSL drama you can take for one week... GW21 is fast approaching, and it's another double 👀 There's going to be no shortage of twists and turns as we close in on the title race, and here's where to tune in to the action 🤝 #FantasyWSL
May the fourth be with you
Well, the 5th, because that's when Liverpool face Manchester United for the clash that could be decisive in deciding who finishes fourth in the table. While there's no prize for finishing just outside the top three, for both teams, fourth place is a huge statement of intent.
For United, anything less than fourth is a disappointment. Manager Marc Skinner has been very clear that he sees his team in the top three, with only the consistency of Arsenal, City, and Chelsea hindering their chances. Skinner has faced increasing pressure over the management of his team this season, with fans turning up to games with 'Skinner Out' signs. Despite his contract being recently renewed, snapping up fourth place will show the door to his doubters.
Manchester United have also never finished below fourth during their time in the WSL, so with Liverpool hot on their heels, things are tense. Liverpool are drawn on points with United, though the Red Devils lead on goal difference. After a stunning win over Chelsea on Wednesday, Liverpool have the momentum ahead of Sunday's clash, and a win would be a massive statement. Liverpool were only promoted to the WSL from the Championship in 2022, and last season finished 7th in the table.
Fourth place to Liverpool will be a strong message from Matt Beard and his team that they mean business. Additionally, United face Chelsea in their last game of the season, whereas Liverpool have a theoretically easier fixture at Leicester City. Could the odds be in their favour?
One thing's for sure - you don't want to miss this.
Image: Getty
