WSL 2026/27 schedule unveiled: City host Birmingham, Lionesses open against United

The Women's Super League announced its 2026/27 calendar, expanding the competition to 14 teams following the promotion of Birmingham City, Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic. The season kicks off on September 4, with London City Lionesses taking on Manchester United and Manchester City defending their crown against Birmingham City on September 6. One outlet will air 90 percent of the 163 matches, with additional coverage on the NOW platform and a dedicated WSL YouTube channel.

The opening weekend also includes Arsenal traveling to Brighton, Tottenham hosting West Ham, Liverpool visiting Charlton, and Chelsea playing Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge. Relegation will remain, with the bottom club dropping automatically and the 13th-placed side entering a play-off. The schedule provides more staggered kick-off times and a winter break from late December to early January.