Everton delivered one of the biggest shocks of the Women’s Super League season as Nigerian international, Toni Payne produced the decisive assist in a stunning 1–0 victory over Chelsea at Kingsmeadow.
The result ended the Blues’ 34-game unbeaten run and handed manager Sonia Bompastor her first league defeat since taking charge 18 months ago.
Toni Payne set the tone early, bursting down the right flank before drilling a precise low cross into the box, where Honoka Hayashi slid in to turn the ball home.
It was Everton’s first WSL win over Chelsea since September 2013.
The goal sent shockwaves through the stadium as Chelsea, sluggish in midfield and uncharacteristically disjointed in attack, struggled to respond with their usual intensity.
Goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan, delivered a dominant performance, making a series of crucial saves, while defender Ruby Mace anchored a resolute back line that refused to break even under late pressure.
Chelsea Ramp Up Pressure – But Everton Hold Firm
Chelsea emerged for the second half with renewed urgency, especially after the introduction of Sam Kerr, whose presence revitalised their attack. Yet the home side’s execution remained poor.
They came agonisingly close when a Sandy Baltimore corner struck an Everton defender and bounced off the post, sparking a frantic goalmouth scramble that the Toffees eventually cleared.
In stoppage time, Chelsea thought they had finally equalised, only for Everton to clear a shot off the line. Moments later, Wieke Kaptein headed against the crossbar, their second woodwork hit of the game.
Despite registering:
Chelsea failed to find a breakthrough.
A Tactical Masterclass From Everton
Everton’s defensive execution was near-perfect. Their shape remained compact, energy levels never dipped, and they consistently made the right decisions under pressure.
Chelsea, however, paid the price for wastefulness. Kerr scuffed a one-on-one chance, typifying their blunt attack.
The defeat could have long-term consequences for the reigning champions. Chelsea, aiming for a seventh straight WSL title, now sit six points behind leaders Manchester City after 10 games.
This loss is their first since the dramatic 4–3 defeat to Liverpool in May 2024, and also the first under Bompastor in league play.
Next Fixtures
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Chelsea: vs Roma, UEFA Women’s Champions League — Wednesday, 20:00 GMT
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Everton: vs Arsenal, WSL — Saturday, 12:00 GMT
