Chelsea Women vs Manchester City Women: Tactical Analysis & Match Report (3-0)

Chelsea’s Aggressive High Press and Mid-Block Control

Bompastor’s tactical intent was clear—Chelsea wanted to be aggressive in their pressing, going player-for-player to force City into long balls rather than risk playing short. Slightly higher up the pitch, Chelsea pressed from their 4-4-2 mid-block shape, utilizing a pendulum press where the front two shifted their pressing assignments based on the ball’s movement.

This pressing scheme often left City’s right central midfielder open, but Chelsea’s defensive organization ensured that passing angles into dangerous areas were consistently blocked. The effectiveness of this strategy was highlighted in Chelsea’s third goal, which ultimately secured their aggregate lead.

The goal once again stemmed from a turnover. City attempted to recycle possession from a throw-in by playing back to their central defender. However, the pass was under-hit, and James quickly pounced, intercepting the ball before driving forward and cutting it back for Ramirez, who finished superbly to complete Chelsea’s remarkable first-half comeback.