The Women’s Super League clash between Chelsea and Arsenal faced a surprising delay of 30 minutes due to an unexpected kit clash at Stamford Bridge.
Initially scheduled for 7 pm on Friday, the kickoff was pushed back as match officials raised concerns about the similarity between Arsenal’s white socks and Chelsea’s kit.
Both teams warmed up wearing white socks, a detail noticed only moments before kickoff, prompting a frantic search for replacements. Arsenal eventually took the field in black socks after a quick dash to the club shop by a staff member.
Embarrassing this. Ridiculous.
— Ian Wright (@IanWright0) March 15, 2024
Reportedly, Arsenal had to cover the Nike logo, Chelsea’s kit sponsor, on each pair of socks before resuming play. Arsenal legend Ian Wright criticized the situation as ‘ridiculous’ and ’embarrassing.’
Former Wales striker Helen Ward highlighted the impact of such incidents on the reputation of women’s football, emphasizing the need for attention to detail in high-profile matches.
Chelsea seized the lead once the match commenced, with Lauren James finding Nande’s net after 15 rounds. Sjoeke Nusken extended the lead six minutes later with a close-range finish from Erin Cuthbert’s shot.
Before halftime, Nusken scored her second goal of the evening, giving Chelsea a comfortable advantage. Arsenal managed to pull one back late in the game through Kim Little’s deflected strike.
Chelsea’s victory propels them three points clear at the top of the Women’s Super League standings.
