UWCL: United Say Goodbye To Winning Streak

For three clubs, there is more at stake this season than just the WSL as they take part in the UEFA Women’s Champions League: Championship title defenders Arsenal, serial UWCL semi-finalists Chelsea, and tournament newcomers Manchester United.

WOLFSBURG V UNITED (5–2)

And, it was the fresh arrivals who had a 100% win streak in the competition during this 2025/26 season. However, coming face-to-face with Wolfsburg, one of Germany’s finest sides, put an end to this highly impressive stride. Things were looking up for the Manchester club at first with Fridolina Rolfö, their major summer signing, finding the goal in the 14th minute. Although it wasn’t long before Wolfsburg overwhelmed United, eventually putting the ball in the net five times. It was a challenging game in defence for United who are currently missing their No.1 goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce as she recovers from a fractured eye socket. Safia Middleton-Patel has replaced the American in goal in what has been quite the baptism of fire.

ARSENAL V REAL MADRID (2–1)

Considering they are the tournament’s reigning champions, Arsenal have not been on their best form in the UWCL so far this season, winless in all three of their previous fixtures. But, this home game at Meadow Park against Real Madrid was a glimmer of hope that they can improve their campaign. It was golden girl Alessia Russo’s brace, both headers, that gave Arsenal this victory, with assists coming from her England teammates Chloe Kelly and Beth Mead. While not a perfect performance from the Gunners, this win shall surely enable a more positive mindset as they look towards hosting FC Twente in early December.

CHELSEA V BARCELONA (1–1)

Death, taxes, and a UWCL Chelsea versus Barcelona fixture. Hosted by the Blues at Stamford Bridge, this was ever going to be the fixture of the week, and unsurprisingly it did not disappoint. It’s fair to say that Chelsea are in a run of draws, not only in the WSL, but now too in the Champions League, with neither side leaving this match victorious. The first goal came in the 16th minute from Chelsea’s Australian summer signing Ellie Carpenter, assisted by Aggie Beever-Jones. Barcelona swiftly responded, with Ewa Pajor showing her skills at the 24th minute. And what’s a game of football these days without a little bit of VAR – both Pajor and Chelsea’s Catarina Macario had goals disallowed for offside. A draw against Barcelona is undeniably beneficial for Chelsea who lost 8–2 on aggregate to the Catalan side in the semi-finals last season.