Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers is confident that her players will rise to the occasion as they prepare to take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this afternoon.
The Gunners are looking to bounce back after a 1-0 loss to Manchester United in the Subway Women’s League Cup semi-finals earlier this week.
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In her pre-match press conference, Slegers expressed her complete faith in her team’s ability to recover in a high-stakes match.
“I believe our performances have been strong,” Slegers stated. “The players have confidence, and I trust in their abilities. We always look forward to these big games. The players thrive on these moments and understand what’s at stake. We’re aiming for victory and need points on the board. This clarity helps us focus on our goals and objectives.”
Addressing Chelsea, Slegers acknowledged the success of the South West London club and anticipates a closely contested match.
“They are a team that has consistently won trophies, and with Emma [Hayes] and now Sonia [Bompastor], they have many experienced players. They possess various threats and can adapt their tactics effectively. It’s a clash of two top teams,” she said.
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“In my two matches against Chelsea, both were tightly contested, with one ending in a late goal and the other being a 1-1 draw. We expect a similarly close encounter this time.”
“We’re definitely ready for this challenge. Our performances since January have been strong, although we’ve struggled to find the back of the net, particularly against [Manchester] United. We’re fired up and ready to take the field.”
A rivalry has emerged between the two teams in recent years, but Slegers doesn’t believe that added tension will benefit her players.
“I don’t think that kind of hostility is helpful. I’m not one to engage in sideline disputes. While we’re competitive and eager to win, the rivalry exists naturally, but it’s not something that should interfere with our play on the pitch,” Slegers commented.
Kick-off for Arsenal’s Barclays Women’s Super League match against Chelsea is set for 12:30pm.