Shaw scores twice as City beat Birmingham to start WSL season

Manchester City’s new campaign kicked off with a decisive 3‑2 victory over Birmingham City, as Jamaican striker Khadija Shaw netted a brace to secure the win. Shaw’s two goals mirrored the tally she delivered in the final game of last season’s Women’s Super League, underscoring the club’s confidence in her by offering a new contract during the summer transfer window. The Jamaican’s performance, coupled with a strong defensive showing, ensured City’s place at the top of the table from the outset.

Birmingham’s newly promoted goalkeeper, Sophie Baggaley, made a notable debut, keeping the visitors at bay and denying the opposition a third goal. Despite Baggaley’s clean sheet, City’s clinical finishing proved too much for the hosts. Meanwhile, other top clubs also found success that day: Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool all secured victories in their respective fixtures, adding to the competitive momentum heading into the season.