London City Lionesses beat Manchester United WFC 2-1 in the first ever women’s super league match of the 2026/27 season, with Julia Zigiotti Olme’s own goal putting the hosts ahead before Daniëlle van de Donk doubled the advantage, Simi Awujo scored a late consolation for United. The match at the CopperJax Community Stadium provided a thrilling start to the new WSL campaign, with London City claiming all three points from a tough tie against one of the league’s traditional heavyweights. The match was also played in front of a sell-out crowd of more than 5,400 supporters, a record attendance for a London City home fixture.
London City made a great start to the new WSL campaign, dominating much of the game and troubling Manchester United with their possession and movement in the middle. The hosts also had the benefit of being able to call on several high-profile summer signings, including Alexia Putellas, Mapi León and Mary Earps.
The opening goal came in the ninth minute. Inside United’s own penalty area, Julia Zigiotti Olme turned the ball into her own team’s net, giving London City an early 1-0 lead. An own goal by a defender, not a scorer, was how the goal was officially recorded.
Manchester United could not generate a consistent attacking threat in the game as London City remained comfortable in possession. United had just started a new era under head coach Eva Olid, making it an extra difficult loss to swallow for the visitors.
London City eventually found their second goal in the 82nd minute as Daniëlle van de Donk scored to put the home team up 2-0. It seemed like Manchester United would not be able to score past London City’s defense after that point. United did manage to respond late in the match. Simi Awujo scored in stoppage time to cut the deficit down to 2-1. There wasn’t enough time for visitors to find an equaliser and London City held on for all three points.
Daniëlle van de Donk was one of the standout players for London City, scoring a vital goal in the final minutes. The Dutch midfielder helped to dictate the game for London City and finished it off with the all-important second goal.
Alexia Putellas was also a big name to watch out for on her debut for London City in her first competitive match. The Ballon d’Or winner was one of the biggest signings of the summer for the club.
Full-Time
London City Lionesses 2–1 Manchester United Women
⚽ 9′ — Julia Zigiotti Olme (own goal)
⚽ 82′ — Daniëlle van de Donk
⚽ 90+’ — Simi Awujo
London City Lionesses picked up a perfect start to their WSL campaign with a stunning win against Manchester United Women. The victory was a significant statement from the newly promoted club, and Manchester United will be looking to bounce back in their next game after tasting defeat in Eva Olid’s first competitive match in charge.
