Players to watch in the Subway Women's League Cup Final
The Two-Way Threat, Ellie Carpenter, Chelsea
Ellie Carpenter has become an important presence on the right flank for Chelsea Women this season, combining defensive reliability with a growing influence in attacking areas. Operating from full-back, Carpenter’s energy and timing allow her to contribute in both phases of the game, supporting Chelsea’s forward play while maintaining defensive stability.
Her composure in possession is reflected in an 86% pass success rate, helping Chelsea sustain build-up play and progress the ball through wide areas. Defensively, she remains equally influential, recording 89 recoveries so far this season, a testament to her positioning and ability to regain control during transitions.
Her all-round influence was also evident in the semi-final against Manchester City Women, where she made four clearances and created one big chance, highlighting her ability to impact both defensive and attacking phases in high-pressure moments.
Carpenter has also contributed going forward, registering one goal and two assists this campaign. As Chelsea prepare for the Subway Women's League Cup Final against Manchester United Women, her ability to influence the game at both ends of the pitch could prove particularly valuable.
The Direct Threat, Alyssa Thompson, Chelsea
Alyssa Thompson has quickly established herself as an exciting attacking presence on the left flank for Chelsea Women. Her direct style of play and willingness to take on defenders has added a new dynamic to Chelsea’s forward line, regularly stretching opposition back lines and creating space in advanced areas.
Her attacking impact is reflected in her six goals in the Barclays Women’s Super League, underlining her ability to turn forward momentum into decisive moments in the final third. Thompson’s approach in one-v-one situations has also drawn fouls in dangerous areas, winning 12 across the league campaign as defenders struggle to contain her pace and movement.
Her influence was also evident in the semi-final against Manchester City Women, where she created two chances and recorded five recoveries, highlighting both her attacking intent and defensive work rate in a high-intensity contest.
Beyond her attacking output, she has shown a strong work rate out of possession, registering 46 recoveries this season. As Chelsea prepare for the Subway Women's League Cup Final against Manchester United Women, Thompson’s ability to drive at defenders and create moments of disruption from the left flank could prove a valuable asset.
The Midfield Engine, Lisa Naalsund, Manchester United
Lisa Naalsund continues to provide energy and discipline in midfield for Manchester United Women, offering a balanced presence across both defensive and attacking phases. Her ability to maintain composure in possession and contribute defensively has made her a reliable option within United’s midfield structure.
Her influence was evident in the semi-final against Arsenal Women, where she came off the bench to make three defensive contributions, including two important blocks, helping United maintain their defensive organisation during the closing stages of the match.
Across the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign, Naalsund has also contributed going forward, scoring three goals while maintaining an 80.7% pass accuracy. Defensively, she has added further stability with nine clearances so far this season, highlighting her ability to support the back line when required.
As United prepare to face Chelsea Women in the Subway Women's League Cup Final, Naalsund’s work rate and midfield presence could prove important in helping United compete in the central areas of the pitch.
The Right-Side Spark, Jessica Park, Manchester United
Operating from the right flank, Jessica Park has become an increasingly influential attacking presence for Manchester United Women. Her ability to combine direct attacking play with intelligent movement allows United to progress the ball effectively in wide areas, while also offering a consistent goal threat in the final third.
Her contribution was clear in the semi-final against Arsenal Women, where she completed 90% of her passes and made three defensive contributions, including two tackles. Performances like that underline her willingness to contribute in both attacking and defensive phases during high-pressure fixtures.
Across the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign, Park has produced six goals and four assists, while also creating six big chances. Beyond her attacking output, her work rate remains evident, recording 71 recoveries this season as she continues to support United across multiple phases of play.
As United prepare to face Chelsea Women in the Subway Women's League Cup Final, Park’s ability to drive play from the right side could provide a valuable attacking spark.
The Last Line, Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Manchester United
Phallon Tullis-Joyce has become a vital presence between the posts for Manchester United Women, providing composure and reliability at the back. Her shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area have played an important role in United’s defensive organisation throughout the campaign, reflected in a 74% save percentage in the Barclays Women’s Super League this season.
Her influence was particularly evident in the semi-final against Arsenal Women, where she was named Player of the Match after producing three saves and three decisive punches to help secure United’s place in the final. Performances like that underline her ability to remain composed under pressure and manage key moments in high-stakes fixtures.
As United prepare to face Chelsea Women in the Subway Women's League Cup Final, Tullis-Joyce’s presence could once again prove crucial. In finals often decided by fine margins, the goalkeeper’s ability to deliver in decisive moments can make all the difference.
