London City Lionesses clinched promotion to the Women’s Super League with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Birmingham City at St Andrew’s. The result came in the final moments of the season, marking the end of an intense battle for the top spot between the two sides. With Birmingham needing a win to secure promotion, they mounted a determined comeback after trailing 2-0, but London City’s resilient defense held firm, earning them the point they needed to top the league.
The game’s standout moment came from Isobel Goodwin, who scored a sensational long-range goal to give the Lionesses the lead. Her powerful strike, which flew into the top corner after she skillfully evaded two challenges, was a contender for goal of the season. Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah extended the lead with a header from a corner, putting the visitors in control. However, Birmingham responded in the second half. Emily van Egmond’s header from close range gave the hosts hope, and with just four minutes remaining, Cho So-hyun’s stunning volley set up a nerve-wracking finish. Despite Birmingham’s relentless push for a winner, the Lionesses held on for the draw, securing their spot in the WSL.
The match was the culmination of a remarkable season for London City Lionesses, who were backed by significant investment from their owner, Michele Kang. Kang, who also owns Lyon and Washington Spirit, has made no secret of her ambition to transform the Lionesses into a major force in women’s football. She was at the forefront of the celebrations, visibly emotional as she carried the promotion trophy onto the pitch. Kang’s leadership has proved instrumental in the club’s success, demonstrating that with the right financial backing and focus, an independent club can thrive in the competitive world of women’s football.
Goodwin, signed for a record fee from Sheffield United, played a pivotal role in the team’s promotion. The 22-year-old former Aston Villa forward’s goal in the final match capped off a season that saw her prove her worth as one of the division’s standout players. After the game, an elated Goodwin expressed her disbelief at the goal, calling it the best she had ever scored. Her individual brilliance was just one example of the quality the Lionesses have brought to the pitch under Kang’s ownership.
The game was broadcast live on Sky Sports, the first time a match in the English women’s second tier had been shown on national television. The occasion was fitting for such a high-stakes encounter, and the viewers were treated to an unforgettable spectacle as Birmingham pushed for a winner in a tense final period of play. The match also showcased the growing profile of women’s football in the UK, with a record crowd of 8,749 at St Andrew’s witnessing the thrilling contest.
After the match, head coach Jocelyn Prêcheur reflected on the achievement, acknowledging the immense effort and determination of his team. He emphasized the significance of the promotion for the future of the club, crediting Michele Kang for her transformative impact on women’s football. The Lionesses’ success is not just a sporting triumph but also a statement about the power of investment in elevating women’s sport to new heights.
Megan Campbell, a key player for the Lionesses, also highlighted the club’s ambitious future. The former Manchester City and Liverpool player, who joined London City in 2023, expressed excitement about the club’s potential, noting that with Kang at the helm, the possibilities are endless. As the team celebrated their promotion, it was clear that London City Lionesses are now poised for an exciting future in the WSL, with their sights set firmly on continued success.
