LONDON — It was always going to be a blockbuster opening fixture for Women’s Super League (WSL) title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal. But the return of Arsenal’s all-time top scorer Vivianne Miedema, now plying her trade for City after moving on a free transfer this summer, made it even bigger. And, of course, the 28-year-old played a huge part in the 2-2 draw.
With 125 goals from 172 games during her seven-year stint with Arsenal, Miedema once called the Emirates home. But here her job was to upset those she had known and loved for so long. Inside six minutes, the Netherlands international almost did exactly that by netting the opener as she sent a stellar strike from distance inches wide of the goal. But, a minute later, Frida Maanum stole in to give Arsenal the lead.
The Gunners then proceeded to show why they might not miss Miedema as they took control of the game — pressing forward down the flanks and creating chances — and Sweden striker Stina Blackstenius missed a clear-cut opportunity to make it 2-0 as she rounded goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita that would have surely taken things away from City.
But, just before half-time, Miedema did what she does best and stunned the home fans into silence with a 41st-minute equaliser…
