After the WSL cup and the international break, the FAWSL finally returns to action with matchday six. There are plenty of high profile matches taking place this weekend including the Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton. Tottenham takes on Arsenal in the London derby and arguably the biggest game of the weekend is between Chelsea and Manchester United.
The two teams have had contrasting starts to the season with the Blues finding themselves at the top of the table playing some scintillating football. The Red Devils, on the other hand, have played good football but haven’t won as many points as their performances have warranted. Having kept Arsenal and Manchester City to one goal, United have shown they have what it takes to stay afloat and eventually compete in the league.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have ambitions of winning the league. With no Champions League football to contend with, many are giving the Blues a major chance of picking up silverware ahead of Manchester City and Arsenal.
This tactical analysis preview will look to dissect and understand the different areas of strengths and weaknesses the two teams possess and how they can be exploited to gain three valuable points.
Tactical Analysis Chelsea Women’s style of play
Manchester United Women’s style of play
Against top-quality opposition, United look to play on the counter-attack using the pace of Leah Galton, Lauren James, Jackie Groenen, and Kirsty Hanson. The four bring individual qualities and strengths that have troubled teams going forward. Their 4-5-1 gives them defensive solidarity and aims to tighten up spaces between their defence. Katie Zelem and Hayley Ladd usually patrol the defensive midfield area effectively, sweeping up any loose balls providing Manchester United with a solid foundation to build off of.
