The Women's Super League returned to action with Manchester City making a commanding start to their title defence, defeating newly promoted Birmingham City 3-1. Jamaican striker Khadija Shaw, last season's Golden Boot winner, marked the opening weekend with two second-half headers, justifying the defending champions' efforts to retain her services during the summer transfer window. The victory underlined City's continued dominance as they look to maintain their position atop English women's football.

Contrasting sharply with City's assured performance was Chelsea's opening fixture, where the traditional powerhouse were held to a draw rather than securing victory. The result has prompted early scrutiny of Chelsea's prospects as they pursue a record-breaking seventh consecutive title. With established contenders showing mixed form in their opening matches, the new season is already shaping as more competitive than recent campaigns.