Match Report: London City 2-1 Manchester United
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London City opened their 2026/27 Barclays Women’s Super League season with an impressive victory over Manchester United in front of a record sell-out crowd under the lights in Bromley.
An early deflected header from Alanna Kennedy and a late goal from Daniëlle van de Donk sealed a victory following a dominant display from the hosts.
Rosa Kafaji, Mapi León, Alexia Putellas and Janni Thomsen were four of the eight summer signings who made their competitive starts with all contributing in their respective positions throughout.
The home side came out of the traps early, going ahead after just nine minutes. Thomsen’s cross into the box was headed goalwards by Kennedy with United’s Julia Zigiotti unfortunate with the final touch.
Only an off-the line clearance from Jayde Riviere prevented Kafaji from doubling London City’s lead after a fine run from player of the match Delphine Cascarino.
Eder Maestre’s side continued to build pressure, with Manchester stopper Phallon Tullis-Joyce called into action and keeping the score at one.
Spain international Lucía Corrales was a constant threat down the left flank, winning a number of set pieces and producing dangerous crosses into the box. Corrales then went close from a corner, her header finding the side netting.
London City started the second half in the same manner as the first, on the front.
After the break, the impressive Kennedy’s fierce strike from the edge of the box was well saved by Tullis-Joyce.
Summer arrival Kafaji came close once more to a debut goal, her effort saved by the visiting stopper.
The visitors under new head coach Eva Olid enjoyed a short spell in the final quarter. Jess Park who starred for the Reds last season, finding the side netting with a flick.
London City doubled their lead with a move off the training ground on 82 minutes. Cascarino found van de Donk from a corner, the latter with a clever turn and flicked finish.
Godfrey got the home fans on their feet, worked her way into a strong shooting position then curled narrowly wide as the hosts pushed for a third.
Simi Awujo struck late to earn Manchester United a consolation.
Head coach Eder Maestre said: “I’m very happy with the result and the performance.
“Today was a very good test to show how capable we can be in this competition.
“I’m really pleased with the display overall especially for an opening game. The players worked hard, we have a number of new players and showed good cohesion.
“We could be more clinical. This competition is tough. We were more dominant throughout but the game ended 2-1. We will continue to work hard.
“Togetherness and commitment are our values. If we continue to follow these, we wilontinue
to be strong. I am very proud of the team.”
Next up, London City travel to West Ham on Saturday 12 September, kick-off 12.45pm.
We are next in home action against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 26th September.
We sold out earlier than ever for our fixture against Manchester United, do not miss your chance to watch us again. Get your tickets below.
Teamsheet: Lete, Kardinaal, Corrales (Pattinson ‘69), Van de Donk, Putellas (Anyomi ‘84), Cascarino (Arques ‘83), Kennedy, León, Kafaji (Godfrey ’62), Geyoro, Thomsen
