Arsenal Edge Manchester City Women in Pre-Season Test

Manchester City Women lost 2-1 to Arsenal Women in a pre-season friendly, with Lauren Hemp scoring for City, as they gear up for the new Women's Super League campaign

21 Aug 2026 By Robert Ingram · senior correspondent

Manchester City Women suffered a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal Women in a friendly, as they prepare for the new WSL season, which starts on September 6.

What happened?

The match saw Stina Blackstenius score for Arsenal, before Lauren Hemp equalised for Manchester City Women. The winning goal was scored by Lisa Baum late in the game. As of the final 2025 table, Manchester City Women are 1st in FA WSL, with 55 points from 22 games, and a recent form of WWLWW.

Why it matters for Manchester City Women

The result is part of Manchester City Women's pre-season preparations, as they look to build on their successful 2025 campaign, where they scored 62 goals and conceded 19, with a goal difference of +43.

What comes next?

Manchester City Women will look to bounce back from this defeat, as they prepare for their competitive season, which begins away to Brighton & Hove Albion on September 6, with the team currently 4 points clear of Arsenal W in the league standings.