The stakes could not be higher as Arsenal travel to Stamford Bridge this Sunday for a thrilling WSL showdown. Chelsea, sitting seven points ahead of Arsenal, have the chance to widen the gap to ten points, while Arsenal are desperate to close it to just four. A record crowd of over 30,000 fans will witness a game loaded with tension, excitement, and title race consequences.

This fierce rivalry has been defined by fine margins in recent years. Last season, Arsenal and Chelsea each claimed a league victory over the other, while their League Cup final went all the way to extra time before Arsenal emerged triumphant. Both teams know how to push each other to the limit, and Sunday promises to be no different.

Renée Slegers’ side enter this derby in their best form of the season, unbeaten since their last meeting with Chelsea, a run of thirteen games. Their momentum has shifted since that defeat last October, with Arsenal displaying resilience, tactical sharpness, and a newfound confidence under Slegers’ impressive leadership. Chelsea, however, are no strangers to handling pressure. Sonia Bompastor’s team boasts an unmatched winning mentality, and Sunday’s electric atmosphere at Stamford Bridge will only fuel their desire to dominate.

Arsenal’s Opportunity to Turn the Tide

Arsenal’s resurgence under Slegers has been remarkable. The team has dropped only two points in the WSL since she took charge, with performances that have restored belief among fans and players alike. Key figures such as Caitlin Foord and Lia Wälti will be available this weekend after some uncertainty midweek, and consistently in-form players such as Alessia Russo and Mariona Caldentey will likely be called upon to boost Arsenal’s firepower and discipline in their mission to neutralise Chelsea’s attack.

In her press conference, Slegers highlighted the importance of starting strong and capitalising on moments of momentum. Arsenal’s ability to defend resolutely and transition effectively will be tested to its limits against a Chelsea side that thrives on punishing defensive lapses.

Slegers on the Chelsea rivalry: “Of course I understand what it means for fans and what it means for certain players. It’s going to be a tight game, there’s going to be some physical battles on the pitch and I think momentum will shift between the two teams.”

— Freddie Cardy (@CardyFreddie) January 24, 2025

Chelsea’s Relentless Machine

Chelsea are riding high on a wave of confidence, having not lost a match all season. Bompastor’s blueprint of aggressive pressing and clinical finishing has kept her team at the summit of English football. With attacking threats across the pitch and impressive squad depth, Chelsea are the epitome of a team that takes their chances when presented.

Bompastor praised Arsenal’s improved confidence but emphasised her team’s focus on their game and mentality. For Chelsea, this derby is not just about widening the gap, but about maintaining their aura of invincibility. 

The Stakes

For Arsenal, this game could breathe life into their title hopes. For Chelsea, it’s a chance to consolidate their dominance. This London derby promises to be more than a football match, it’s a battle for pride, points and power and the question remains – will London be red or blue?