Sonia Bompastor is preparing for a tough challenge in our Women’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge today, but after winning the competition last season, knows exactly what it will take to get there.
The head coach has put together two wins out of three against opposition coach Andree Jeglertz this season, winning 2-1 in the Women’s Super League at the start of the campaign and 1-0 in the Women’s League Cup semi-final in January.
That said, we succumbed to a 5-1 defeat at the Etihad Stadium in February in the WSL, and Bompastor explained what went wrong, what she learned from that loss and how she plans to approach this latest test against Man City.
‘A lot of things, but mainly the defensive aspects,’ Bompastor replied, when asked about the lessons learned from the City defeat. ‘Out of possession, we didn't perform well enough. Especially in transition, we were really open, and we didn't get things right in that part of the game. We conceded three goals in that game from set pieces, so at that level, it's not good enough.
‘The big challenge going into the game on Sunday is that they are doing great as a team, and they also have a lot of individual players who are able to impact the game. So for us, it's making sure we come into the game being able to execute our game plan, but also trying to stop their strengths and threats.’
Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton meant that Man City sealed the WSL title on Wednesday evening - their first since 2016 - and Bompastor was asked whether she hoped their celebrations would impact Sunday’s performance.
She responded in jest, but went on to explain how she knew such high-quality opposition would be well prepared today.
‘I hope they will party tonight, and tomorrow, and Saturday!’ she joked on Thursday. ‘No, but it's fair to say you need to enjoy these moments, and I think that's normal for them to celebrate.
‘They are professionals. I think their players and staff will be ready, and they know as well that it's an important game for them, and there is a trophy at the end. I'm sure they will be ready for the game.'