Arsenal delivered a powerful statement to title‑holders Manchester City on Saturday, hammering league bottom Leicester City 7‑0 at the Emirates Stadium. The victory not only highlighted the Gunners' attacking depth but also underscored that the Women's Super League championship race remains wide open.
The match opened with a historic moment for Norway midfielder Frida Maanum, who celebrated her 100th WSL appearance by heading in the first goal. Maanum’s strike set the tone for what would become a relentless onslaught.
Just two minutes later, Swedish forward Smilla Holmberg, who joined Arsenal from Hammarby in January, found the net for her first goal with the club, assisted by Maanum’s clever lay‑off. Swedish striker Stina Blackstenius, a key figure in the side, added a brace, while Holmberg also completed a double, showcasing the potency of Arsenal’s forward line.
Midfielders Mariona Caldentey and Leah Williamson contributed their own goals, the latter capitalising on a near‑post finish after a well‑timed cross. By the 41st minute, Arsenal were already three goals clear, with Maanum again involved, this time delivering a delicate chip that Blackstenius turned into a composed finish. In first‑half stoppage time, Blackstenius struck again, tapping in a pass from Victoria Pelova that had found the back of the net untouched. The goal marked Arsenal’s 100th tally under head coach René Slegers, a milestone that was quickly eclipsed as Holmberg added a 101st shortly after the interval, after a pinpoint pass from Olivia Smith.
Leicester, already doomed to finish at the foot of the table after their 15th defeat of the season, were unable to recover. Their loss guarantees a place in the relegation‑play‑off, where they will face the third‑placed team from the WSL 2 division – either Charlton Athletic, Birmingham City or Crystal Palace – in a one‑off tie that will decide whether they retain top‑flight status. Arsenal’s win lifted them above Manchester United into third place, narrowing the gap to second‑placed Chelsea to two points and leaving them eight points adrift of leaders Manchester City.
However, the Gunners still have two games in hand and four fixtures remaining, meaning the title race is far from settled. Coach René Slegers, who had rested several regulars such as Williamson and Alessia Russo in preparation for the upcoming Champions League semi‑final second leg against Lyon, praised his squad’s professionalism. "It’s the Arsenal way you saw today. With these short turnarounds and competing on several fronts, staying present and focused is vital," she told Sky Sports.
"We executed our game plan brilliantly, kept discipline across the pitch, and I’m delighted with the clean sheet. The players’ readiness and versatility give us confidence – everyone knows their role and brings their strengths.
Communication and trust are high, both on and off the field. We still have work to do; catching City will be a step‑by‑step process." Leicester manager Rick Passmoor expressed disappointment but remained pragmatic. "It’s a disappointing performance and result.
Our priority now is the next two games to position ourselves for the play‑off," he said. "WSL 2 is full of talent, well‑organised and coached, so we must stay confident, keep morale high and be ready for the challenge ahead." The match also featured a few near‑misses, such as England defender Emily Fox rattling the crossbar as Arsenal pressed for a fourth goal before half‑time. Nonetheless, the Gunners never eased off, maintaining pressure and creating numerous chances throughout the 90 minutes. Looking ahead, Arsenal travel to Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday, 6 May, for a 7:45 pm kickoff that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football.
The fixture offers another opportunity to close the gap on the leaders and keep the title hopes alive. For fans wishing to follow the Women's Super League, live streaming options are available on NOW without a contract, and the Sky Sports app provides on‑the‑go access. The league table can be tracked in real time via the official WSL website, and updates are also shared through Sky Sports on WhatsApp. Overall, Arsenal’s dominant display against Leicester not only added three points to their tally but also sent a clear signal to Manchester City and the rest of the league: the Gunners are capable of producing high‑scoring, disciplined performances when it matters most.
With a solid defensive foundation, a versatile attacking unit, and a coach who emphasizes adaptability and teamwork, Arsenal remain a formidable contender as the season draws to its climax.