3 things you need to listen out for in women’s football this year

From Issue #025 of the Pod Bible magazine, the Breaking Bread column from Stak gave us some top tips to keep up with women’s football this year…

Women’s football is BACK! And that means that the world’s leading podcast; ‘Upfront’, will be giving you all the women’s football insight every step of the way. Join hosts Chloe Morgan (ex-Tottenham & Crystal Palace player) & Rachel O’Sullivan (founder of Girlsontheball) for their pre-game predictions, off-pitch opinions & post-match chitchat.

Following on from the unbelievable success of the Lionesses last year, the craze for women’s football has skyrocketed – paving the way for all eyes to be on the remainder of the women’s football season in 2023.

Continuing to serve their hilarious and topical insight, Chloe & Rachel will be tackling the hard-hitting topics from both on and off the pitch alongside special guests each week. From women’s health, to championing the women’s grassroots game, they are set to analyse all the key moments from another exciting year. So, without further ado, here are the 3 key things to look out for in this year of women’s football…according to Upfront.

1. THE WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE.

The WSL has already shot into action for 2023, with some hot contenders for the title. “Chelsea and Arsenal are the obvious choices but with all top 4 teams dropping points, Man United are also looking a real threat in the title race.” Rachel predicts. “You can’t count out Man City either, who are going quietly about their business. I think we will see a very tight top 4 with the potential for goal difference to play a part.” The rest of the league is hotting up too. “Also Villa – had a great Jan recruitment session and now bolstered by Wardy extending her contract!” adds Chloe.

2. THE AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

“This is probably England’s best chance to win a World Cup.” With the Lionesses roaring success at the Euros last year, this year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand could be the perfect opportunity to grab another victory! However, Chloe explains that there’s, “a lot of tough competition with teams like Brazil and Canada being involved!”. “Of course there are a lot of outside factors that will play a part such as travel, and time difference and the calibre of teams involved is higher than the Euros. A big challenge ahead but the Lionesses are in a great place.” Rachel responds.

3. THE CONTINUING GROWTH OF WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

It is undeniable that the popularity of women’s football is going to “continue to soar” as Chloe suggests. “Of course we’re seeing an impact in attendances but we’re seeing even more investment within the clubs.” Rachel notes “The big area of growth will be at grassroots level and seeing more and more opportunities for young girls to get involved and continue to stay involved. That’s key to longevity in the game.”

To hear more of Chloe & Rachel and their thoughts on this year of women’s football, subscribe to ‘Upfront’ in your podcast app and keep up to date with episodes every Tuesday.