Chelsea's quest for a fifth consecutive Women's Super League title hit a major roadblock with a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Liverpool. The loss dealt a blow to Chelsea's hopes of giving manager Emma Hayes a victorious farewell as she prepares to take over as head coach of the United States women's national team.
Liverpool secured their second straight home win over Chelsea in a high-scoring encounter that saw a total of seven goals in the match. The result adds to Chelsea's recent disappointments, having lost the Conti Cup final to Arsenal, an FA Cup semifinal to Manchester United, and their Champions League semifinal to Barcelona.
The defeat now puts Manchester City in the driver's seat for the title race, with a six-point lead over Chelsea and a superior goal difference. City's remaining fixtures against third-placed Arsenal and Aston Villa give them a favorable position in the championship race.
Chelsea, who initially took the lead through Aggie Beever-Jones, found themselves pegged back by Liverpool's Sophie Román Haug and Gemma Bonner. Despite Beever-Jones leveling the score, Liverpool's Leanne Kiernan and Bonner's second goal put the home side ahead once more.
A late own goal by Liverpool's Teagan Micah gave Chelsea hope, but Bonner's brace ultimately sealed the victory for Liverpool, leaving Chelsea reliant on other results to clinch the league title.
The upcoming fixtures for both teams will be crucial, with Chelsea facing Bristol City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United, while City takes on Arsenal and Aston Villa in their final matches. The dramatic encounter between Chelsea and Liverpool will be remembered as a classic in the Women's Super League season.
