London City wins WSL opener vs Man Utd

London City Lionesses began their Women's Super League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Manchester United on Friday, September 4, 2026. The match, held at the CopperJax Community Stadium, marked the opening night of the 2026-27 WSL season and saw a debut for high-profile signing Alexia Putellas. The home side took an early lead in the ninth minute when Manchester United's Julia Zigiotti headed a cross into her own net. London City doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute through Danielle van de Donk, who finished a low ball from Delphine Cascarino. Manchester United managed a consolation goal in the 100th minute from Simi Awujo, but it was not enough to secure a point. Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d'Or winner who joined London City from Barcelona, started the match wearing the captain's armband. Despite her decorated career, Putellas acknowledged the adjustment to English football. "I'm still learning, it's the first game," she told reporters. "It's a physical league. I'm a player who thinks the ball always moves faster than the legs, so we're going to try to improve that." She added that the move represents a significant challenge and an opportunity to test her limits.