Kerr Back on the Scoresheet as Chelsea Advance in FA Cup, Several WSL Teams Also Progress
Kingston, England – Sam Kerr marked her return to form with a crucial goal as Chelsea defeated Manchester United 2-1 in an FA Cup replay on February 22, 2026, securing their place in the quarter-finals. The goal, Kerr’s ninth against United in 10 appearances, came six minutes after she entered the match and briefly put Chelsea ahead before Naomi Girma ultimately secured the win in extra time. Whereas a boost for Chelsea, the club faces a potential dilemma as Kerr and Ellie Carpenter may be unavailable for upcoming matches, including the League Cup final, due to their participation in the Asian Cup.
Elsewhere in the FA Cup, Liverpool continued their resurgence with a 2-1 win over Everton, Charlton narrowly defeated Oxford United 1-0, Arsenal progressed with a 3-0 victory over Bristol City thanks to a goal from Kim Little, Manchester City dominated Sheffield United 4-0 with a standout performance from Lauren Hemp and Iman Beney, and Brighton overcame West Ham 2-1 with a goal and assist from returning player Fran Kirby.
Chelsea’s Kerr Shines, But Asian Cup Looms Large: FA Cup Roundup
Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester United in a replay of last year’s FA Cup final, but the win was tempered by the impending absence of star striker Sam Kerr. Kerr’s crucial goal, her 150th for the club, proved decisive, but she will soon depart for the Asian Cup, leaving Chelsea facing a potential dilemma.
Kerr’s Impact and Uncertain Future
Sam Kerr’s return from a 22-month ACL injury has been closely watched, and her performance against Manchester United offered a glimpse of her former self. Having struggled to regain peak form, Kerr’s instinctive finish within six minutes of entering the pitch was almost inevitable, marking her ninth goal in ten games against United.
Despite her goal being quickly cancelled out by Simi Awujo, Kerr’s presence applied significant pressure on the United defense, ultimately leading to Naomi Girma’s extra-time winner. However, Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor acknowledged the emotional challenges Kerr has faced and the difficulty of limited playing time. “It’s been a bit tough with many things, like not getting the minutes she wanted,” Bompastor stated. “Today will have been great for her confidence.”
The Australian international’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain as her contract expires at the end of the season. Before the game, Kerr was presented with a commemorative shirt celebrating her 150th appearance, raising questions about whether this season will be her last with the club.
League Cup Final Concerns and Player Absences
Chelsea’s joy is tempered by the prospect of being without Kerr and Ellie Carpenter for approximately four weeks, should Australia progress deep into the Asian Cup. This absence will impact key fixtures, including the League Cup final on March 15th, the Women’s Super League clash with London City on March 21st, and potentially the Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Arsenal on March 24th.
FA Cup Roundup: Other Key Results
Elsewhere in the FA Cup, Charlton narrowly defeated Oxford United 1-0, with a late penalty securing their place in the quarter-finals. Liverpool’s resurgence continued with a 2-1 victory over Everton, fueled by their January recruitment drive and a significant improvement in attacking output. Kim Little led Arsenal to a 3-0 win over Bristol City, showcasing her enduring class and importance to the team, while Fran Kirby’s return from injury provided Brighton with a cutting edge in their 2-1 win against West Ham.
Manchester City and Sheffield United Clash
Manchester City dominated Sheffield United, securing a 4-0 victory with a standout performance from Lauren Hemp and Iman Beney. The duo’s wing play caused significant problems for the Blades defense, with Hemp scoring twice and assisting Beney for two identical goals. City manager Andrée Jeglertz praised Hemp’s level of performance and the impact of Beney’s arrival.
Did you grasp? Kim Little recently lifted the Champions League trophy with Arsenal in May 2025, further cementing her status as a club legend.
The Rise of Resurgent Teams
Liverpool’s transformation since January is a testament to the impact of strategic recruitment. Their improved attacking statistics, with more shots on target in a single game than in all of December combined, demonstrate the effectiveness of their new signings. Similarly, Brighton’s victory over West Ham highlighted the importance of key players like Fran Kirby returning from injury.
Pro Tip: Successful teams prioritize player fitness and strategic recruitment during the January transfer window to address weaknesses and bolster their squads for the second half of the season.
FAQ Section
Q: How long will Sam Kerr be away from Chelsea?
A: Kerr will be away for around four weeks if Australia progresses to the latter stages of the Asian Cup.
Q: What competitions will Chelsea be without Kerr for?
A: Chelsea will be without Kerr for the League Cup final, a WSL clash with London City, and potentially the Champions League quarterfinal first leg.
Q: Who scored the winning goal for Chelsea against Manchester United?
A: Naomi Girma scored the winning goal in extra time.
Q: What is Kim Little’s significance to Arsenal?
A: Kim Little is a club legend who continues to showcase her importance at the age of 35, recently lifting the Champions League trophy and consistently delivering strong performances.
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