USWNT Stars Shine Abroad: Coffey, Fox, Girma Lead Weekend Performances
Sam Coffey's Impact at Manchester City
Sam Coffey is beginning to find her rhythm at Manchester City, earning regular starts after joining midseason and adjusting from her role with Portland in the NWSL. Over the weekend, she played the full 90 minutes as City beat heated rivals Manchester United 3-0, delivering a composed performance in midfield. Coffey was tidy in possession, won the majority of her duels, and helped control a match City largely dictated. As she continues to settle into the system, the USWNT international is quickly becoming an important piece for one of the WSL’s top sides.
Emily Fox Bolsters Arsenal's Defense
Emily Fox continues to be one of the most consistent outside backs in women’s football. She delivered a standout performance in Arsenal’s midweek win over Chelsea, helping limit a dangerous frontline and playing a key role in a controlled defensive display. Fox did not feature in Sunday’s match against Tottenham, but her impact earlier in the week underlined her importance to Arsenal’s backline. Comfortable in possession and aggressive going forward, she offers balance on both ends of the pitch – qualities that have helped Arsenal tighten up defensively during this stretch. For the USWNT, Fox remains a reliable option at full back, and Emma Hayes will continue to lean on her experience and consistency, provided she stays healthy. Across the league, Arsenal recorded an impressive 3-1 victory over Chelsea before a 5-2 result against Tottenham.
Naomi Girma Scores and Helps Chelsea Secure Vital Win
Naomi Girma got on the scoresheet early as Chelsea responded to their midweek loss with a win over Aston Villa. Her impact was greater against Villa, helping the Blues take the lead 2-1 in the 23rd minute of play. Girma finished off a short corner served in from Lauren James; while she only got a small touch on the ball, it was enough to slide past Villa's Ellie Roebuck. Chelsea sits four points behind top-seeded Manchester City in the league standings, and Girma will be crucial as she prepares for a bout of three games against Japan for the USWNT. After managing injuries for a good part of last year, getting reps and time in the back for Chelsea and the national team are just what she needs to cement confidence for the road to the '27 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes Stay Strong in France
In France, Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes remain top of the table, with Yohannes scoring a late equalizer in a 2-2 draw against Strasbourg.
Phallon Tullis-Joyce Faces Tough Derby Loss
Phallon Tullis-Joyce conceded three times in Manchester United’s 3-0 loss to rivals Manchester City in the derby. While she was vocal throughout - particularly on a sequence where she felt she was obstructed - the decisions stood, and United were second-best for much of the match. The result was something of an outlier for Tullis-Joyce, who has otherwise been reliable this season, consistently dealing with crosses and one-on-one situations. Still, on a crowded USWNT goalkeeping depth chart, performances like this - regardless of the defensive breakdowns in front of her - won’t strengthen her case.
Catarina Macario Returns to NWSL with San Diego Wave
Off the field, Catarina Macario completed a return stateside, finalizing a move from Chelsea to the San Diego Wave – the latest example of top USWNT talent heading back to the NWSL after years of moving abroad.
- Sam Coffey played full 90 minutes in Manchester City’s 3-0 win over Manchester United.
- Emily Fox helped Arsenal secure a 3-1 win over Chelsea and a 5-2 victory over Tottenham.
- Naomi Girma scored early and assisted Chelsea’s lead against Aston Villa.
Coffey was tidy in possession, won the majority of her duels, and helped control a match City largely dictated.
