Manchester United Suffer Heavy Defeat to Chelsea in Women’s FA Cup Final

Manchester United failed to defend their Women’s FA Cup title after a commanding 3-0 loss to Chelsea at Wembley Stadium. Notably absent from the stands was Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s minority owner, who had acquired a 27.7% stake in the club earlier this year.

Chelsea continue trophy streak with WSL and League Cup already secured

Chelsea, already champions of the Women’s Super League (WSL) and League Cup, took charge from the start. In the 45th minute, Sandy Baltimore calmly converted a penalty after Celin Bizet fouled Erin Cuthbert in the box.

Baltimore and Macario seal the win in second half

In the closing stages, Chelsea extended their lead with goals from Catarina Macario in the 84th minute and Baltimore again in stoppage time. Chelsea’s attacking edge was clear, registering 12 shots (7 on target), while United only managed 5 shots with 2 on target.

Stark contrast in executive support

The contrast in leadership presence was apparent: Chelsea had a strong representation of owners and directors, including recent investor Alexis Ohanian. Meanwhile, Manchester United were represented solely by Avie Glazer, Omar Berrada, and Jason Wilcox.

Skinner urges focus despite Ratcliffe’s absence

Marc Skinner, United’s manager, addressed the absence:

“In all honesty, I don’t know why Sir Jim wasn’t here. What matters is that the club continues to invest in the right way.”

Champions League secured, but gulf remains

Despite finishing in the top three of the WSL and qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League, the loss underscores the gap between United and Chelsea. The Blues continue to benefit from significant financial backing — including a recent £20 million investment from Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian.