Chelsea Women host Arsenal on Sunday in a crucial WSL clash that could define both teams’ title ambitions. The Gunners sit third on 25 points, eight behind leaders Manchester City and six behind second-placed Chelsea.
Defeat would seriously damage Arsenal’s already slim title hopes while victory keeps them in touching distance.
Arsenal come into this match off the back of a disappointing 1-0 League Cup semi final defeat to Manchester United on Wednesday. Renee Slegers’ side dominated possession but failed to create clear cut chances, a worrying trend that has plagued them against top opposition this season.
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Kick-off: 12:30 GMT, Sunday, January 26, 2026
Venue: Kingsmeadow, London
TV: Sky Sports (UK)
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Arsenal’s Title Hopes Hanging by Thread
This is frankly a must win game for Arsenal if they harbour any realistic title ambitions. Eight points behind City with a game in hand is already a massive gap, and falling 14 points behind would effectively end their challenge before February even begins.
Emily Fox likely remains unavailable after suffering a head injury against Aston Villa, while Leah Williamson continues recovering from a calf problem. Daphne van Domselaar should be available after returning to the matchday squad against United.
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Predicted Lineups:
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Hampton; Bronze, Bright, Bjorn, Lawrence; Coombs, Ingle; Beever Jones, James, Reiten; Kerr
Arsenal (4-3-3): Van Domselaar; McCabe, Williamson, Catley, Wubben Moy; Little, Mariona, Maanum; Mead, Russo, Foord
Also read: Why Will Arsenal Defender Emily Fox Miss Manchester United League Cup Semi Final?