The team has been plagued by injuries, with key players like Sam Kerr, Mia Fishel, and Aniek Nouwen still recovering from ACL injuries sustained last year. Sophie Ingle suffered a similar setback during preseason against Feyenoord, while Niamh Charles dislocated her shoulder in the same match. Lauren James has also missed much of the season due to ongoing fitness issues. Despite these setbacks, Chelsea have outperformed every opponent they’ve faced this season.
Saturday’s match represents Chelsea’s biggest challenge yet. The Blues have faced intense competition for each of their last five WSL titles, with last season’s closest challenge coming from Manchester City. Gareth Taylor’s side, after starting the season with a 2-2 draw at the Emirates against Arsenal, have won every match since in all competitions.
Notably, they secured a 2-0 victory over defending Women’s Champions League winners Barcelona. Their triumph against Chelsea in the corresponding fixture last season, albeit at Kingsmeadow, will undoubtedly boost their confidence. The importance of the fixture for Chelsea was clear as captain Millie Bright, center-back partner Kadeisha Buchanan, midfielder Sjoeke Nüsken, and forward Mayra Ramírez were excluded from the traveling squad for the UWCL trip to Celtic, ensuring they had full rest for the big match.