Welcome back to another exciting edition of Goalside Gossip, your ultimate source for everything women's soccer! This week, we're celebrating Chelsea FC's incredible achievement of clinching their fifth consecutive WSL title with a commanding 6-0 victory over Manchester United. In a season filled with ups and downs, the Blues showcased their resilience and depth, securing the championship on goal difference and giving coach Emma Hayes a fitting send-off. We also delve into Manchester City's bittersweet finale, where a win against Aston Villa couldn't quite tip the scales in their favor.

In the NWSL, the Kansas City Current's dramatic 3-3 draw against Racing Louisville kept their unbeaten streak alive, while the Portland Thorns' 2-0 triumph over Houston Dash extended their winning streak to a club-record six games. With thrilling matches and standout performances, the league is heating up, and we're here to bring you all the action and updates.

Our coverage of the United Women's Soccer (UWS) league continues to grow as we spotlight standout players and exhilarating matches. The UWS season kicked off with a goalfest, and we're excited to tell you share it with you!

This week's player spotlight shines on Temwa Chawinga, a dynamic forward making waves in the NWSL with the Kansas City Current. From her roots in Malawi to her record-breaking performances in Sweden and China, Chawinga's journey is a testament to her talent and determination.

As always, we have more in store with exclusive player interviews, tactical breakdowns, and a closer look at how teams are gearing up for upcoming matches. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's blend of Goals, Gossip, and Glory from the world of women's soccer. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the sport, there's something here for everyone as we celebrate the passion and skill of these incredible athletes.

Your 2024 WSL Champions: CHELSEA FC

Chelsea vs Man United (6-0)

Chelsea secured their fifth consecutive WSL title with a dominant 6-0 win over Manchester United, giving coach Emma Hayes a memorable send-off in her final game. Both Chelsea and Manchester City ended the season with 55 points, but Chelsea's superior goal difference clinched the title. Mayra Ramirez starred with two goals and two assists, while Fran Kirby scored the sixth in her final match for Chelsea. The Blues showcased their depth and resilience, finishing as the league's top scorers and maintaining strong defensive form, despite a challenging season.

Man City vs Aston Villa (2-1)

Manchester City's hopes of winning the Barclays WSL ended in disappointment at Villa Park despite a final-day victory. Chelsea clinched the title on goal difference, marking their fifth consecutive league win. Mary Fowler and Lauren Hemp scored for City, but Rachel Daly's equalizer for Aston Villa and City's missed opportunities sealed their fate. The loss of key player Khadija Shaw in April and a stoppage-time defeat to Arsenal earlier contributed to City's downfall. City finished second, securing European football for next season and building a strong foundation for the future.

How Things Turned Out

NWSL Matches of the Week

KC Current vs Racing Louisville (3-3)

The Kansas City Current extended their unbeaten streak to 10 games with a dramatic 3-3 draw against Racing Louisville at CPKC Stadium. Kansas City became the fourth team in NWSL history to have 14 different goal scorers in a single season, with Gabrielle Robinson scoring her first professional goal in stoppage time to give the Current a brief 3-2 lead. Despite a strong performance and goals from Lo’eau LaBonta and Michelle Cooper, the Current conceded a late equalizer in the 103rd minute, resulting in a draw. Head coach Vlatko Andonovski praised his team's character and resilience despite the disappointing (and controversial) finish.

Portland Thorns vs Houston Dash (2-0)

The Portland Thorns secured a 2-0 victory over the Houston Dash at Shell Energy Stadium, extending their win streak to a club-record six games. Ana Dias scored her first NWSL goal and Olivia Moultrie added another, helping the Thorns complete a regular season sweep of the Dash. Despite a two-hour delay, Portland dominated with a 22-11 shot advantage, while Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell made eight saves. The Thorns are now third in the league standings, one win away from tying the league record for consecutive victories. They are definitely a hot team to keep an eye on.

NWSL Updated Table

United Women’s Soccer (UWS)

As the new official partner of the UWS, we will be covering some players, games and stories from the United Women’s Soccer League. We encourage everyone to go check out their website and find your favorite team.

The UWS Season officially began on Saturday and the best word to describe it is: GOALFEST. Our favorite matches from the weekend:

Sporting CT vs Worcester Fueld FC (9-0)

New England Mutiny vs Maine Footy (3-1)

Sporting CT and New England Mutiny each claim three points and move to the top of the table early on. We will be updating you all on our favorite games and results as they happen to stay tuned.

Player Spotlight: Temwa Chawinga

Temwa Chawinga, a dynamic forward born on September 20, 1998, in Rumphi, Malawi, has swiftly made her mark in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) with the Kansas City Current. Known for her exceptional scoring ability, Chawinga's journey from Blantyre Zero to Kvarnsvedens IK, then Wuhan Jianghan University, and now to the Kansas City Current, has been nothing short of impressive. At just 25, her goal-scoring prowess has already set her apart, with an astonishing 55 goals in 57 appearances for Kvarnsvedens IK and 83 goals in 84 appearances for Wuhan Jianghan University.

Since joining the Kansas City Current in 2024, Chawinga has continued her stellar form, scoring 4 goals in her first 5 games. She made history as the first Malawian to score in the NWSL, marking her debut with a goal in a thrilling 4-2 victory over Angel City FC. Her seamless adaptation to the league is evident as she followed up with a goal against NJ/NY Gotham FC and a brace in a dominant 5-2 win over Bay FC. Beyond her club success, Chawinga has been a vital player for the Malawi national team, amassing over 22 goals in 14 appearances, showcasing her talent on the international stage as well.

Chawinga's journey is not only a testament to her skill but also her resilience and passion for the game. As the youngest of five children, with her name meaning "love" in her native Tumbuka language, she has carried her roots with pride and determination. With her older sister, Tabitha Chawinga (PSG), also a professional footballer, the Chawinga sisters continue to inspire many in Malawi and beyond, proving that with talent and hard work, dreams can indeed become a reality.

Are you a player or do you know a player who you think should be a player spotlight? Submit the form HERE and get in touch with us!

Shot by Goalside Gossip:
Washington Spirit vs Angel City FC

We had the opportunity to attend the goal frenzy that was the Washington Spirit vs Angel City FC at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. this weekend, and were able to capture some great shots. Check them out below and in our Instagram!

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