Chelsea Women vs Manchester City: Tactical Analysis & Match Report (2-1)

Chelsea's tactical brilliance under Sonia Bompastor led them to a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Subway League Cup Final. This analysis explores the key moments and strategies that shaped the match, including Chelsea's defensive solidity, effective transitions, and key offensive plays that secured their win.

Chelsea’s Opening Goal

Chelsea took the lead following a goal-kick sequence. They set up in a 4-2-4 shape against City’s 4-1-4-1, with both teams pressing aggressively. City’s striker targeted Chelsea's center-backs, while their midfielders man-marked Chelsea’s holding players. This allowed Chelsea to exploit the space left in City’s setup.

The sequence began with a long ball to Chelsea’s left-back, who was immediately pressed. However, Chelsea's forward peeled off and found space between the lines. Holding up the ball under pressure, she then found a teammate who played a precise pass through to another Chelsea player. A shot was saved, but the rebound was converted, giving Chelsea a 1-0 lead.

The sequence starts with Hampton going long to the left-back, Baltimore, who is pressed immediately.

Macario has peeled off the backline and attacked the space between the lines to receive possession. She does brilliantly to hold the ball up despite immediate City pressure and… pic.twitter.com/xEEaS28NDS
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) March 15, 2025