Emma Hayes admits defeat in Women’s Super League title race to Manchester City following Chelsea’s late loss.

In a thrilling encounter on Wednesday night, Chelsea Women suffered a devastating 4-3 defeat to Liverpool, effectively conceding the Women’s Super League title to Manchester City. With just two games remaining, the Blues find themselves six points behind City, who are on the verge of securing their first league title since 2016.

Although mathematically possible for Chelsea to catch up, they would need their rivals to drop at least three points from their remaining fixtures. The reigning champions have won the last four WSL crowns but are now facing the prospect of being dethroned. This disappointing season is likely to mark the end of Emma Hayes’ tenure as manager, as she is rumored to be leaving for the US national job.

Reflecting on the defeat, Hayes expressed her fondness for the club and her desire to win titles for Chelsea once again. However, she acknowledged that this year’s title is out of reach. Hayes praised Manchester City for their consistency and admitted that they deserve the championship.

The match against Liverpool saw Chelsea take the lead in the first half through Aggie Beever-Jones’ header. However, a pulsating second half saw Sophie Roman Haug equalize for the Reds, setting the stage for a frenetic finale. Liverpool twice went ahead, only to be pegged back by Chelsea. But it was Gemma Bonner’s injury-time goal that sealed the victory for Liverpool and extended Chelsea’s run of disappointing results.

This defeat comes on the back of Chelsea’s elimination from the Champions League by Barcelona, their exit from the FA Cup at the semi-final stage, and their loss to Arsenal in the final of the Continental Cup. Despite the recent setbacks, Hayes refrained from being too critical of her players, acknowledging their past achievements and the desire to win the title. However, she did highlight the defensive lapses that cost them the game against Liverpool.

As the season draws to a close, Chelsea will continue to fight until the end, but the title appears to be slipping away from their grasp. Manchester City’s consistency and impressive performances have put them in a commanding position, leaving Chelsea to reflect on what could have been.