Updated

Chelsea appeared to be cruising toward victory in their Women's Super League opener against Aston Villa, leading with just 11 minutes remaining, before Villa scored a late equaliser to snatch a 2026-27 season-opening draw. The result denied Chelsea a winning start to the campaign and raised early questions about defensive lapses that have plagued the club previously. Chelsea defender Katie McCabe described the draw as 'frustrating' but said there was 'no need to panic' given how early it is in the season. It marked the first time Chelsea have dropped points against Aston Villa in WSL competition, prompting scrutiny of the club's title credentials heading into the new campaign.