The Women’s FA Cup served up a compelling round of fixtures this weekend, with defending champions Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal all securing their places in the quarter-finals. A dramatic extra-time winner from Naomi Girma propelled Chelsea past a resilient Manchester United, while City and the Gunners displayed dominant form against lower-league opposition. The competition continues to showcase the growing strength and depth of the Women’s Super League, alongside the ambition of teams further down the football pyramid.
Chelsea’s path to the last eight wasn’t without its challenges. Facing a determined Manchester United side at Kingsmeadow, the Blues found themselves locked in a tight contest that ultimately required an additional 30 minutes to resolve. The deadlock was broken in the 99th minute by Naomi Girma, the American center-back scoring her first goal for the club with a close-range finish following a corner. This victory not only secures Chelsea’s progression in the FA Cup but also provides a psychological boost ahead of their League Cup final clash against the same opponents on March 15th at Ashton Gate.
Girma’s Breakthrough Goal Seals Dramatic Win for Chelsea
The match was a tense affair, with both sides creating opportunities throughout. Substitute Simi Awujo leveled the score for Manchester United in the 81st minute, cancelling out Sam Kerr’s earlier opener. Kerr, who came off the bench, had expertly steered home Veerle Buurman’s knockdown just three minutes prior. But, Girma’s intervention in extra time proved decisive, ensuring Chelsea’s continued pursuit of a second consecutive FA Cup title. The goal marked a significant moment for the 25-year-old, who joined Chelsea in 2025 for a reported $1.1 million transfer fee – a women’s soccer world record at the time, according to Wikipedia.
The victory was particularly sweet for Chelsea, having defeated Manchester United in last season’s final. Manager Sonia Bompastor will undoubtedly be pleased with her team’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity. The FA Cup remains a key target for the Blues, who are also competing on multiple fronts this season.
Arsenal and Manchester City Showcase Dominance
Elsewhere, Arsenal demonstrated their pedigree with a convincing 3-0 victory over Bristol City. Captain Kim Little continued her impressive form, scoring for the second consecutive FA Cup tie. Victoria Pelova and Frida Maanum also found the back of the net for the Gunners, securing their place in the quarter-finals. However, the match was marred by a concerning head injury to winger Olivia Smith, who was stretchered off, as reported by the BBC. Her condition will be closely monitored in the coming days.
Manchester City also enjoyed a comfortable passage into the next round, ruthlessly dispatching second-tier Sheffield United 4-0. The Citizens raced into a commanding lead within the first 22 minutes, with two close-range finishes from Lauren Hemp and a well-placed drive from Aoba Fujino. Laura Coombs added a fourth goal in the 90th minute, completing a dominant performance. City’s attacking prowess was on full display, highlighting their status as one of the leading teams in the Women’s Super League.
Brighton Secure Victory Amidst Personal Tragedy
Brighton also progressed to the quarter-finals, securing a 2-1 win over West Ham. The match was particularly poignant for manager Dario Vidosic, who recently returned to the dugout following the passing of his father, Rado, who also served as Brighton’s women’s and girls’ head of coaching, as detailed by the BBC. Veteran Fran Kirby rolled back the years with a goal and assist in a commanding first-half display, while Leila Wandeler’s 75th-minute goal for West Ham proved insufficient to spark a comeback.
Lower League Successes and Upcoming Fixture
Beyond the WSL clashes, Birmingham City and Charlton Athletic also enjoyed success, prevailing in ties against non-top-flight opposition. Oceane Hurtre starred for Birmingham City, scoring a hat-trick in an 8-0 rout of Chatham Town. Charlton Athletic edged out fourth-tier Oxford United thanks to a 76th-minute penalty from Lucy Fitzgerald.
The final fifth-round tie will see London City Lionesses host capital neighbours Tottenham on Monday, February 23rd (19:30 GMT). This match promises to be another exciting encounter as both teams vie for a place in the quarter-finals.
FA Cup Quarter-Finalists Confirmed
- Chelsea
- Manchester City
- Arsenal
- Brighton
- Birmingham City
- Charlton Athletic
- [Remaining two teams to be determined]
The FA Cup continues to provide a platform for both established WSL teams and emerging talents from lower leagues to showcase their abilities. The quarter-final draw will undoubtedly generate further excitement as the competition progresses towards a thrilling conclusion. The tournament’s blend of established stars and rising prospects underscores the growing popularity and competitiveness of women’s football.
The upcoming League Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester United on March 15th promises to be a captivating encounter, building on the intensity of their FA Cup clash. With both teams vying for silverware, the match is set to be a highlight of the women’s football calendar.
As the FA Cup progresses, the focus will remain on the players, the teams, and the unwavering passion that drives the beautiful game forward. The competition serves as a testament to the dedication and skill of those involved, inspiring fans and aspiring athletes alike.
The next confirmed checkpoint in the Women’s FA Cup is the quarter-final draw, which will determine the pairings for the next stage of the competition. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates and comprehensive coverage of the tournament. We encourage you to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.