Advantage Arsenal, Brighton upset Man City, and a dramatic twist in the WSL2 title race
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The latest episode of Upfront dives into a whirlwind weekend of drama across women's football, starting with Arsenal's historic Champions League semi-final first-leg victory over Lyon at the Emirates—marking their first win in the competition at home and their first semi-final first-leg win. The match was defined by Lyon's early goal, a pivotal own goal from Engen, and a late winner from Olivia Smith, who battled fouls and exhaustion to score. The podcast also highlights Brighton's stunning 3-1 upset over league leaders Manchester City, with Fran Kirby delivering a masterclass in creativity and composure. Meanwhile, the WSL2 title race has become a three-horse sprint between Charlton, Birmingham City, and Crystal Palace, with the final day of the season creating unprecedented tension. Josie Green joins the show from the Palace camp, revealing a mix of excitement and nerves as the team fights for promotion, while the hosts reflect on the growing competitiveness and investment in the league. The episode closes with a look at Chelsea’s move to Stamford Bridge and the broader debate about women’s football stadium development, emphasizing the need for fan experience and long-term sustainability.
Arsenal secured their first-ever Champions League semi-final first-leg win at home, defeating Lyon 2-1 with late goals from Olivia Smith and an own goal.
Brighton stunned Manchester City with a 3-1 victory, led by Fran Kirby’s two assists and a pivotal role in every goal.
The WSL2 title race is now a three-way battle between Charlton, Birmingham City, and Crystal Palace, with promotion on the line in the final matchday.
Crystal Palace are guaranteed promotion with a win, Charlton with a draw, and Birmingham with a win—making the final game a high-stakes thriller.
Chelsea’s decision to play all home games at Stamford Bridge raises questions about fan experience and long-term sustainability in women’s football.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Champions League Drama: Arsenal’s Historic Win Over Lyon
“It was a real, 'you can kick me around the park but I'm still going to get a goal against you.' Particularly for Smith, you know, she came off in the 84th minute. She doesn't often play the full 90.”
Brighton’s Shock Upset of Manchester City
“It was such a lapse in judgment from Man City who had for the most part of the game really been on the front foot.”
The WSL2 Title Race: A Three-Horse Sprint
“It's just, you couldn't kind of bet on any of this stuff happening. It is, yeah. And it just makes it so exciting.”
Transfer Rumors and Player Movement
Rumors intensify around Beth Mead and Katie McCabe potentially joining Manchester City at the end of their Arsenal contracts. The hosts discuss the strategic implications and the growing rivalry between City and Arsenal for top talent.
Bunny Shaw’s Transfer Value and Chelsea’s Pursuit
Chelsea are reportedly offering £1 million per year to lure Bunny Shaw from Manchester City, highlighting her consistency and goal-scoring rate. The episode explores the emotional and strategic weight of such a move for both clubs and the player.
“It was a real, 'you can kick me around the park but I'm still going to get a goal against you.' Particularly for Smith, you know, she came off in the 84th minute. She doesn't often play the full 90.”
“It's just, you couldn't kind of bet on any of this stuff happening. It is, yeah. And it just makes it so exciting.”
“It was such a lapse in judgment from Man City who had for the most part of the game really been on the front foot.”
Hosts
Guest
Rachel O'Sullivan
person
Chloe Morgan
person
Arsenal
other
Manchester City
other
Crystal Palace
other
Lyon
other
Brighton
other
Olivia Smith
person
Birmingham City
other
Fran Kirby
person
Man City make United pay, Chelsea's Villa thriller and controversial jeggings
Upfront - A Women's Football Podcast • 57m • 3/31/2026
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Upfront - A Women's Football Podcast • 43m • 4/2/2026
Arsenal’s FA Cup hoodoo, the WSL2 can’t stop cooking and England vs Spain... again!
Upfront - A Women's Football Podcast • 48m • 4/7/2026
The Lionesses see off Spain at Wembley and Ireland finally get a win!
Upfront - A Women's Football Podcast • 35m • 4/15/2026
The Lionesses hit 500 matches, trailblazing Marie-Louise Eta and the Champions League semi-finals!
Upfront - A Women's Football Podcast • 56m • 4/21/2026
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