- Date: Saturday 5 September2026.
- Kick off times (s): 12:35pm (UK)
- Competition: Womens Super League
- Venue: Stamford Bridge London
- How to watch: BBC OneOne(UK)
How do I watch Chelsea vs Aston Villa?
Around 80% of WSL games will be shown on Sky Sports, but this fixture will be live on BBC One for UK viewers. In the US, the game will be available on CBS Sports Golazo, with streaming also available via Paramount+.
Match preview
The opening match of the WSL season at Stamford Bridge will see Chelsea begin their pursuit of the league title after surrendering their crown last season. Following a convincing Champions League qualifying victory over Real Sociedad, Sonia Bompastor’s side will be keen to showcase their quality and the threat of their revamped attacking line-up.
For Aston Villa, this marks the beginning of a new chapter. Significant changes have been made to Natalia Arroyo’s squad, with several key attacking players departing, most notably Kirsty Hanson. With many expecting a challenging campaign, Villa face an immediate test against one of the league’s strongest sides.
For Chelsea, this is an opportunity to lay down an early marker and signal their intentions to the rest of the WSL. A statement victory would provide the perfect start to their campaign and reinforce their status as serious title contenders.
Chelsea team news
Mayra Ramírez is Chelsea’s only absentee, with the forward not expected to be rushed back following the season-ending injury she suffered last term. One of Aggie Beever-Jones or Melvine Malard is therefore likely to lead the line, to score the goals. The dangerous Manaka Matsukubo is a doubt for the game also, and unlikely to be rushed back.
Katie McCabe is expected to return to the starting XI, while Alyssa Thompson should resume her role in the wide areas.
Villa team news
Goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck is likely to miss out as she continues her recovery from shoulder surgery, while Jill Baijings is sidelined following an ACL rupture. The strikers who helped keep Villa in the WSL last season, Kirsty Hanson and Ebony Salmon, have both departed, leaving a significant void in attack.
Mathilde Harviken could therefore be a key player for Villa this season, particularly given the lack of proven attacking quality in the squad.
Prediction
An easy 3-0 win for Chelsea.
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