How London City Proved They Can Live Up to the Hype

London City Lionesses had a simple test in their Women’s Super League opener: prove that a squad packed with stars could become more than a collection of famous names. They passed it with a 2-1 win over Manchester United.

In front of 5,402 fans at Hayes Lane, London City dominated the first half and repeatedly unsettled United with an aggressive press. The team attacked from the opening minute, when Alanna Kennedy’s shot won a corner, and continued to exploit hesitation in Manchester United’s possession.

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It was really fun to win today. I think we have a chance to do something this season. We are trying to build something huge and achieve big things and I think we have a chance.

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas made her debut and provided control in midfield. Grace Geyoro brought speed, Kennedy added physical intensity, and the team’s fluid combinations made the new lineup look unusually settled for the first match of the season.

Danielle van de Donk, who spent much of last season injured, scored for London City. Kennedy also headed the opening goal, which deflected off Julia Zigiotti. New arrivals Mary Earps and Nicole Anyomi began on the bench, while Mapi León and Rosa Kafaji started.

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The team showed how capable we are and what we were trying to create so I’m very proud.

Owner Michele Kang watched from the stands in a new shirt bearing her name and posed for photos with supporters before kickoff. Delphine Cascarino said the result showed the squad could build something substantial. “It was really fun to win today,” she said. “I think we have a chance to do something this season. We are trying to build something huge and achieve big things and I think we have a chance.”

Maestre acknowledged that Manchester United could not be dominated for an entire match. Still, he said the performance showed what London City were trying to create. “The team showed how capable we are and what we were trying to create so I’m very proud,” he said.

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It’s one of the most challenging situations for coaches when you have many talented players but you are trying to align everyone on the same page and achieve something big.