Chelsea Football Club emerged triumphant in the Women's FA Cup final, clinching their third consecutive title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Manchester United at Wembley Stadium. A record-breaking crowd of 77,390 spectators, including Prince William, witnessed the thrilling encounter with Sam Kerr scoring the match-winner to seal her side's fate.
The game began with a lively start as Manchester United, making their first-ever FA Cup final appearance, almost broke the deadlock within the opening minute. Leah Galton found the back of the net, only to have her effort disallowed due to an offside decision. This early scare subsequently put Chelsea on the back foot, with the Londoners struggling to find their rhythm in the first half.
Despite their initial difficulties, Chelsea turned the tide in the second half, largely thanks to the introduction of Pernille Harder. It was Harder's precise assist that set up Sam Kerr to calmly slot the ball beyond the grasp of United's goalkeeper, Mary Earps. Kerr's clinical finish marked her third consecutive Women's FA Cup final goal, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable force in the tournament.
IT HAD TO BE HER! THE BACKFLIP @samkerr1 loves a BIG goal at @wembleystadium! #WomensFACup pic.twitter.com/y6Fr4cs3NC
— Vitality Women's FA Cup (@VitalityWFACup) May 14, 2023
With their lucky lead secured, Chelsea had to endure a late surge of attacks from a persistent Manchester United side. However, Emma Hayes' team exhibited strong defensive resilience, managing to hold on to their slim advantage. In front of an electric atmosphere and in the presence of Prince William, Chelsea's triumph marked another chapter in their illustrious history.
For the Hayes, the result took her trophy haul for Chelsea to 12 in just 11 years at the club. She joins Vic Akers as the only other manager to win the competition three seasons in a row.
The triumph not only saw Chelsea lift the coveted trophy for the third year in a row but also boosted their aspirations of securing a domestic double. Their attention now turns to a momentous London derby clash against Arsenal, scheduled for the upcoming Sunday, where they will strive to add the Women's Super League title to their already impressive FA Cup triumph.