Leicester City are set to face Arsenal Women in an upcoming Women’s Super League clash, offering the Gunners the opportunity to secure their fifth consecutive victory across all competitions. Presently, the Gunners hold the fifth position with 10 points, while the hosts sit three points behind in seventh place.
After successfully avoiding relegation last season, Leicester showcased an impressive start to the current campaign, clinching three consecutive victories across various competitions. Despite their battling performances against Manchester United and Manchester City, Leicester’s momentum has dwindled since their 2-1 League Cup win over Liverpool on October 11.
Willie Kirk’s Leicester team, which has experienced a solid start to the season, aims to distance itself from the relegation battles of the past two seasons. However, a recent loss to Liverpool has presented a setback, making the upcoming clash with Arsenal a crucial opportunity for redemption.
Having faced defeats in all four of their Women’s Super League encounters with Arsenal, Leicester recognizes the challenges ahead. Despite the King Power Stadium historically favoring Jonas Eidevall’s Arsenal over the past two seasons, Leicester’s enhanced recruitment this year promises to make them a more formidable opponent.
Arsenal approaches this Women’s Super League fixture with momentum, having secured four consecutive victories across all competitions. Manager Jonas Eidevall emphasizes the gradual development of his team, particularly after a compressed pre-season due to UWCL qualifiers.
Despite a challenging start to the season, including losses in Champions League qualifying rounds and only one point from the initial two league games, Arsenal rebounded with a crucial 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. Subsequently, they claimed two more 2-1 victories against Bristol City and Manchester City and continued their winning streak with a 3-1 triumph over Bristol City in the League Cup.
Returning to WSL action, Arsenal aims for another dominant display against Leicester, having won 5-0 and 4-0 in their last two away games against them. Notable players Kim Little and Lia Walti return to the squad, adding strength after being rested in the midweek game against Bristol City. However, injuries sideline Leah Williamson, Laura Wienroither, and Teyah Goldie in various stages of their ACL recovery, while Laia Codina remains out with a minor muscle injury.
Jonas Eidevall acknowledges Leicester’s competitiveness, praising manager Willie Kirk for his role in transforming them into a highly competitive side. Eidevall anticipates a tough and competitive game, recognizing Leicester’s growth and investment in their squad.
Players to Watch:
Victoria Pelova emerges as a key player, evidenced by her substitution in the midweek game against Bristol City. Pelova, a Dutch midfielder, is gradually securing her place in the starting eleven, currently ahead of Frida Maanum. Her ability to evade pressure and contribute to crucial goals makes her a significant asset in the highly competitive Arsenal midfield.
Predicted Lineup:
Leicester Women Possible Starting Lineup: Leitzig; Bott, Howard, Green, Thibaud, Nevin; Cain, Tierney, Rantala, Goodwin; Petermann
Arsenal Women Possible Starting Lineup: Zinsberger; McCabe, Ilestedt, Wubben-Moy, Catley; Little, Walti; Lacasse, Pelova, Foord; Russo
