London City Lionesses stay third after draw with Arsenal

London City Lionesses remain third in the Women’s Super League after a 1-1 draw with Arsenal, a result that strengthens their case for a top-three finish and a place in next season’s Champions League qualifying round.

Eder Maestre’s side are six points clear of Arsenal after 10 matches, just shy of the season’s halfway point. They have already faced Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United; league leaders Chelsea are due to play them in December.

London City fell behind to Frida Maanum’s goal at the Emirates but Izzy Goodwin equalised 98 seconds later. Arsenal had 17 shots, scoring once, while London City managed 14 and hit the crossbar through substitute Delphine Cascarino. Goalkeeper Mary Earps made eight saves and was named player of the match.

Maestre said his players had been “brave” and willing to take risks, while also defending more selectively than in their recent 2-1 defeat by Manchester City. “The way we faced and challenged every circumstance in the game shows we are here, and able to play with that mentality in these big games,” he said.

London City’s position is notable given they were in the second tier only 18 months ago. Backed by Michele Kang, they recruited high-profile players including Alexia Putellas, Earps, Mapi León and Kadidiatou Diani in the summer. Maestre said competition for places was helping forward Izzy Goodwin mature; the 23-year-old scored against Arsenal with England manager Sarina Wiegman watching from the stands.