This week in women’s football brought a mix of important moments. The community paid tribute to a beloved coach, while a major investment involving football stars Juan Mata and Giorgio Chiellini highlighted the game’s exciting growth. We also saw a Canadian legend announce her retirement and celebrated the formation of a new international team, offering hope and opportunity to its players.
The key takeaways from this week show a sport that is evolving. There is deep respect for the pioneers who built the game, combined with growing financial interest from new investors who see women’s football as a standalone opportunity. At the same time, the sport continues to provide a platform for inspiring stories, from a celebrated player’s retirement to the creation of a refugee national team.
🙏 Remembering a Women’s Football Pioneer
The football world is remembering Matt Beard, a respected and successful coach in the women’s game, who passed away at the age of 47. Beard was known for his significant contributions, especially in England’s Women’s Super League (WSL). He famously led Liverpool to back-to-back league titles in 2013 and 2014. He also managed several other top clubs, including Chelsea, West Ham, and Bristol City. U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Emma Hayes, who took over from him at Chelsea, described him as “one of the best humans” and a “champion in the women’s game.” Many former players remember him as an intelligent and kind coach who had a positive impact on their careers. His passing is a great loss to the football community.
💼 Star Players Invest in Bristol City Women
In exciting business news, Bristol City Women, who play in England’s second-tier league, have been acquired by Mercury13, an investment group focused solely on women’s football. The ownership group includes famous football stars like former Spanish midfielder Juan Mata and legendary Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini. Mercury13 plans to invest significantly in women’s clubs in Europe and Latin America. Their strategy is unique because they are separating the women’s team from the men’s club structure, allowing it to grow independently while keeping the Bristol City name and branding. This move is seen as a major step forward, showing that investors believe women’s clubs can be successful businesses on their own. The new owners are aiming for immediate promotion back to the top-tier WSL.
👋 Canadian Legend Desiree Scott Says Goodbye
Long-time Canadian international midfielder Desiree Scott has announced her retirement from football. The 38-year-old, known for her tough playing style, ended her career playing in the first-ever season of Canada’s new Northern Super League. Scott had a wonderful career, earning 188 caps for Canada and winning two Olympic bronze medals and a historic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Her club, Ottawa Rapid FC, praised her leadership and impact on the new league. In her farewell message, Scott encouraged fans to continue supporting women’s football in Canada. As the league’s first season nears its end, her team has secured a playoff spot, along with AFC Toronto, Montreal Roses, and Vancouver Rise.
🌍 International Football Heats Up
On the international stage, the draw for the 2025-26 CONCACAF W Championship qualifiers has been set. This tournament will determine which teams from North and Central America and the Caribbean will go to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. In a truly inspiring development, FIFA has helped form the first-ever Afghanistan Women’s Refugee National Team. After the Taliban took over in 2021, many female players had to flee the country. A squad of 23 players, who now live in countries like Australia, the UK, Portugal, and Italy, has been selected. They will play their first matches in a tournament in the United Arab Emirates this month, a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for women in sport.
