Nigerian defender, Rofiat Imuran featured for London City Lionesses in their historic Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) debut against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, a clash that ended 4-1 in favor of the European champions.
It was a bittersweet debut for Rofiat. The 20-year-old Super Falcons defender impressed with her pace, defensive positioning, and attacking overlaps on the left flank before being forced off late with a knock.
Rofiat Imuran and Lionesses Stun Early at the Emirates
Playing the opening game of the 2025/26 WSL season at the Emirates, newly promoted London City Lionesses, described as the “WSL’s disruptors”, proved they were not here to make up the numbers.
They ripped up the script when captain Kosovare Asllani coolly slotted home from the penalty spot after Arsenal defender Katie Reid brought her down in the box.
Arsenal Regain Control Through Star Power
Arsenal, however, showed their why they are the defending champions of the Champions League.
Debutant Olivia Smith, the world’s first £1m female signing, produced a stunning long-range strike to level the score.
The Gunners then went ahead just before the break as England’s Euro 2025 hero Chloe Kelly bundled the ball over the line for a 2-1 lead.
Despite competing well for large periods, the Lionesses’ lack of top-flight experience began to show in the closing stages.
Arsenal’s squad depth proved decisive as substitutes Stina Blackstenius and Frida Maanum struck late to seal a 4-1 victory.
A Journey of Growth for Rofiat Imuran
Imuran’s appearance capped an extraordinary journey with London City Lionesses. The Nigerian joined the club in October 2024 from French side Stade de Reims, signing a three-year deal.
At Reims, she made 30 league appearances and scored eight goals, showcasing her ability to impact both ends of the pitch.
Last season, she played a pivotal role in London City’s historic promotion to the WSL, their first-ever top-flight campaign.
Her defensive solidity and transitional play were crucial as the Lionesses topped the FA Women’s Championship with 43 points, sealing promotion with a 2-2 draw against Birmingham City on the final day.
Lionesses Disrupting the WSL Order
London City Lionesses’ rise has been nothing short of remarkable. An independently owned club with no ties to a men’s counterpart, they are funded by wealthy American businesswoman Michele Kang.
This summer, they overhauled their squad with 17 arrivals, including England forward Nikita Parris, former Manchester United captain Katie Zelem, and Italy international Elena Linari.
Up Next
Arsenal will travel to West Ham on Friday, 12 September (19:30 BST) as they continue their title defense.
Meanwhile, London City Lionesses will play their first-ever home WSL game at Hayes Lane against Manchester United on Sunday, 14 September (14:00 BST).
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