Fran Kirby's Fight Club: Recent Episodes
Fran Kirby's Fight Club
What it says on the tin: a one-of-a-kind podcast related to all things Chelsea FCW & Super Fran Kirby. Your hosts? Maryam Naz (@MNaz98) & André Carlisle (@not_carlisle) 💙✊🏾
Andre and Maryam breakdown the 3-0 win over Brighton and talk all things Mayra Ramirez - Chelsea FCW's hottest new signing...
Maryam and Andre react to a Lauren-James-orchestrated 3-1 over title rivals Manchester United at Stamford Bridge...
A special pod from Mia and Maryam talking all things Elisabet Gunnarsdottir. Could she be the new Chelsea women's manager?
Maryam and Andre sift through a chaotic 3-1 FA Cup win over West Ham, as well as talking shop on all things Manchester United and the managers in the running for the soon-to-be-vacant head coach job...
Well 2024 did not start in the best way for Chelsea FCW. Maryam & André are here to talk about just how sad Sam Kerr's ACL rupture is (the football gods are the cruelest!), whether Chelsea should turn to the transfer market, and what changes we might see as the team faces the rest of an important season without their world class striker.
Then we welcome Nathalie Björn to Chelsea! We talk about her as a talent, her statistical profile, where she might fit in, and what we can expect when she makes her debut.
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam and Andre breakdown the 3-0 victory over Bristol City, as well as reviewing and previewing the Champions League group stage fixture against Hacken...
Andre and Maryam do a quick-fire review of Chelsea's 4-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates...
Maryam is a bit under the weather so André welcomed Harry Edwards to the fight club! If you've seen an incredible stat about CFCW tumble across your timeline there's a good chance it came from Harry.
He joined to wrap up Chelsea's two big wins before the break against Paris FC and Leicester. Then they take a step back and use the international break to do an early season review, and spotlight some incredible performers, and players we're still waiting to see the best of.
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Harry:
Twitter - @harryedwards16
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Andre and Maryam get to the mic and chat all things Chelsea including today's 5-1 hammering of Liverpool, a review of the chaotic midweek trek to Spain, and the kinesthetics of having a piggyback ride on Millie Bright...
Maryam and Andre pick apart Chelsea's 3-0 win against Everton, including a chat on FA Player shout-outs, and why this next month of fixtures could be make or break...
Maryam and Andre review the 6-0 demolition of Aston Villa, and dissect the shock news of Emma Hayes leaving at the end of the season (whelp)...
In lieu of a game review this week, Maryam and Andre tackled the UCWL draw, did some more previewing of Aston Villa, and also went through your mailbag questions - including whether Andre held up to the height and physique of NBA phenom Victor Wembanyama.
Maryam and Andre review Sunday's 4-2 win over Brighton, laud over Sjoeke Nusken's hat-trick, and natter about squad rotation and slippery formations ahead of the international break...
Maryam and Mia dissect the 2-0 victory over West Ham, including discussing the rampant attacking midfield, and a sneak peak at next week's lunchtime clash with Brighton.
Manchester City 1-1 Chelsea
Chelsea earn one of the weirdest points you'll see, thanks in some part to some of the weirdest refereeing you'll see. André Carlisle and Mia Eriksson discuss lineup choices, cardapalooza, time wasting, and Chelsea crossing again and again and again and again and...you get the point.
In the end, a point from one of our most difficult fixtures of the season. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam and Mia review the 2-1 win over Spurs on the opening day of the season, as well as delving into the depth of our squad, and a quick sneak peak of predictions for this Sunday’s clash with Manchester City!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam welcomes Mia Eriksson back to the fight club to review Chelsea's 3-2 preseason win over Roma!
We talk about formation tweaks, Sjoeke Nüsken's debut, Lauren James back with a bang, what it means to have Super Fran Kirby back on the pitch, and lots more.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam welcomes Mia Eriksson back to the fight club to review Chelsea's 3-2 preseason win over Roma!
We talk about formation tweaks, Sjoeke Nüsken's debut, Lauren James back with a bang, what it means to have Super Fran Kirby back on the pitch, and lots more.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André are back for a fourth (4th!) season and with a bunch of #CFCW news to react to. Emma Hayes has been busy in the transfer market (and might not be done) so we review every signing so far, and allow André to gush about Catarina Macario & Ashley Lawrence.
Then we move onto trying to make sense of the goalkeeper signings and situation (hint: we can't), and address the 'Chelsea are ruining women's football by signing so many players' conversation/complaint/hateration.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
C H A M P 🏆 🏆 🏆 🏆 O N S
Emma Hayes' Chelsea topped Reading 3-0 on the final day of the season to secure their FOURTH consecutive WSL title! It was a coronation more than a match, and the party got started eighteen minutes in, thanks to who else but Sam Kerr!
Maryam, Mia Eriksson and André react to the match, discuss what it means to win 4 consecutive league titles, and give our awards for Defender of the Year, Attacker of the Year, She Got That Dawg in Her of the Year, Goal of the Year, Assist of the Year and Player of the Year! It was a remarkable season, come celebrate it with us! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Chelsea turned London blue yet again with a 2-0 win over Arsenal, with Magdalena Eriksson scoring in her final appearance at Kingsmeadow!
André is joined by Mia Eriksson to discuss the match and the moment. They also talk about the Manchester Derby and rooting for Gareth Taylor to get a result for one (1) day, then look ahead to the final match of the season away at Reading. Plus, of course, predictions!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Magdalena Eriksson and Pernille Harder's Chelsea exits became official so André had to bring in our resident Swedish football expert, Mia Eriksson, to talk about Magda's Chelsea legacy.
We discuss Magda's journey and growth with Chelsea, which coincided with Chelsea's growth to dominant team in England, to a force in the Champions league. We also look at her impact far beyond the pitch, and what makes her (and her partner, Pernille Harder) icons and role models who transcend sport and gender.
Then we look ahead to a big game that is a big game but doesn't feel as big as it probably should, Chelsea hosting Arsenal at Kingsmeadow. We discuss the stakes for each club, and of course, give our predictions! Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Link:
Magdalena Eriksson: Some people say footballers shouldn't talk about big issues – they're wrong The Athletic
Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
ONE TROPHY DOWN! Chelsea weather Manchester United then Pernille Harder and Sam Kerr deliver the winning goal to give us a third consecutive FA Cup trophy in front of 77,390!
Maryam & André grabbed the mics to immediately react to the win. We discuss our feelings coming in, coping with United's early intensity, waiting for the Pernille Harder sub, Maren Mjelde starting and winning and FA Cup Final, and loads more!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
André welcomes back Mia Eriksson to discuss all things Chelsea ahead of the FA Cup Final against Manchester United.
We talk about everyone somehow being surprised that Chelsea score lots of goals in the WSL, Pernille returning to the pitch with a vengeance, playing at Wembley, who has the psychological advantage, and how we want to see Chelsea play against the Red Devils.
Then we address the sad rumors about Magda and Pernille leaving and reportedly having already signed contracts with Bayern Munich. We take some time to remember Magda's Chelsea career and wallow in a bit of sorrow about never really getting to see the best of Pernille for a substantial amount of time in her short Chelsea career. Plus André reveals the only thing/player/person who can make it all better!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow Mia:
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
A couple days after Chelsea's UWCL semifinal exit to Barcelona, Maryam & André chat to process the tie.
We begin the pod by exorcising frustrations about opportunities that could have reshaped one or both games, and therefore the tie, but then pull back to think about Chelsea's performances as a whole. We contextualize the effort across both legs to identify the progress being made, and why there's hope that – even though it'll have to wait at least another year – we'll win this thing yet.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam and Mia chat all things Barcelona, dissecting the 1-0 semi-final first leg loss at Stamford Bridge. They also look ahead to the second leg on Thursday with some interesting predictions...
André & Mia (not Magda) Eriksson sit down to discuss Chelsea's patchwork squad getting by Aston Villa and booking a spot in another FA Cup Final!
We discuss some performers, including the appearance of Vintage Magda, address #TheDiscourse, and break down the winning goal. Then we turn our attention to the first leg of Chelsea's semifinal against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge this Saturday! We discuss the mindset the Blues need to have, plus Chelsea's best route to getting a result.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
André couldn't wait to talk about Chelsea's outrageous, insane, ridiculous, amazing escape over Lyon so he gets straight into it and brings Mia Eriksson along for the ride. We review an absolutely wild UWCL quarterfinal moment by moment to relive an iconic Chelsea win. We also spotlight some immense performances, and wonder just what the hell is flowing through Maren Mjelde's veins! Plus, we pass on Ann-Katrin Berger's very simple advice to goalkeepers and penalty takers around the world.
Then we look at Chelsea getting terrific performances from a heavily rotated side as they avoid the Aston Villa banana skin, 3-0.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Well, that wasn't great. Maryam welcomes Fran Kirby's Fight Club's adopted cohost Mia Eriksson to the pod to discuss Chelsea's no good very bad day in Manchester.
CFCW suffered their second loss of the season in a 2-0 match versus Manchester City. Maryam & Mia discuss what went wrong, how Emma tried to cope, and what it means for the title race. They also do their best to convince you to forget about Sunday, there's a Champions League quarterfinal to get through this week!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André quickly review Chelsea's 3-1 win over Reading in the FA Cup before shifting focus to the return of the UEFA Women's Champions League!
Chelsea have been given the task of getting by Lyon in the quarterfinal round, so we preview the first leg, which will be played in Lyon on Wednesday, March 22. We look at Lyon's history of dominance, but put it in a bit of perspective due to the current landscape of women's football. Then we look at the injury situation at both clubs (hint: improving for Lyon, not so much at Chelsea), and pick out key players in the tie.
Of course, because Maryam is here, we also give our predictions! Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Chelsea FCW took six points from Brighton and Manchester United to put themselves two points clear at the top of the table and with a game in hand!
André welcomes Mia Eriksson back to the fight club to talk about it all. First they get into the midweek Brighton match, the loads of rotation, getting over a difficult opponent, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd's first Chelsea goal! Then we get into the matchup with Manchester United. We talk about all of Chelsea's injuries, Emma Hayes' tactics that gave us the edge, spotlight incredible performances, THAT Lauren James and Sam Kerr connection, and more!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Well that sucked. Chelsea play a weird, annoying, bad and frustrating match versus Arsenal, having a considerable hand in all three of their goals after going 1-0 up in the second minute.
It was a shock and not at all what we're used to from this team. So Maryam & André do their best to talk through it. We give our theories on why this might have happened, whether it's good or bad that it happened at the beginning of a brutal month, and how Chelsea can bounce back. We also address some Emma Hayes slander that has popped off in the wake of this frustrating loss.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Our brutal stretch of games began with a 2-0 win over Arsenal. That's 1 down, 6 to go!
Maryam & André turn on the mics to discuss clinical Chelsea defeating toothless Arsenal just days after the end of a major international break. We discuss Lauren James' impact, Ève Périsset and Niamh Charles, Jelena Čanković's player of the match performance, and also we cannot stop talking about Sam Kerr!
We also discuss the GK merry-go-round and preview next weekend's match when we do it all over again but this time for a trophy. And of course, because Maryam is back, we give our predictions. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
MARYAM'S BACK! The OG pod returns with André welcoming back Maryam, who shares some exciting life updates before we get on with our Q&A episode!
We asked for questions on Twitter and got a range of good ones! Thank you to Theo, Mülla, Vince, Carl, Mary an Randy for sending in questions. We discuss a possible minutes restriction for Lauren James, the soon to be very crowded GK situation, psychology between club and international play, our preferred backlines, (gulp) replacing Magda Eriksson and Pernille Harder but only if we HAVE to, and the start of Chelsea's upcoming BRUTAL schedule.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
The fight club is growing! In this episode André welcomes a brand new member to Fran Kirby's Fight Club, Louisa Okolobe from Chelsea Perspective!
Louisa joins the pod to talk about Chelsea's 7-0 flawless victory over West Ham. We discuss a perfect outing, Sam Kerr's hat trick, Magdalena Eriksson & AKB's return to the starting XI resulting in the return of a clean sheet, and Ève Périsset starting and getting an assist.
Then we look to the UWCL Draw where Chelsea drew Lyon in the quarterfinal round, and if they get by them, likely Barcelona in the semis. We also look at the overall calendar for March where Chelsea will play games versus Lyon, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City. It's going to be a busy one with a LOT on the line. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Support Louisa:
Twitter - @Sol_Daro
YouTube - Chelsea Perspective
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
André & Mia Eriksson review Chelsea scoring three goals against Spurs (again), conceding silly goals (again), but coming away with the 3-2 win and all three points. We get into Magdalena Eriksson, who's suddenly gone missing from the Chelsea backline, and it shows.
We also discuss Jess Carter's Sam Kerr impression, Lauren James in God Mode and us loving every bit of it, Jessie Fleming at the #10, plus Guro Reiten's much needed goal. Then we look ahead to upcoming matches, the UWCL Draw, and discuss Chelsea's main title rivals failing to score a single goal over the weekend, putting the Blues two points clear at the top of the table.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Aaaaaaand we're back! Maryam is deep in NBA coverage so André welcomed the great Mia Eriksson back to the fight club!
We get into the debacle of the 6-minute match versus Liverpool, Chelsea's 3-1 Conti Cup win versus Tottenham (plus Kirby's "shhhhhh") and the 3-2 Chelsea win over Liverpool in the FA Cup.
We dive into all the sudden competition within the squad (Zećira Mušović/AKB; Niamh Charles/Ève Périsset; Jess Carter/Madga Eriksson), Chelsea's 'tap tap boom' approach, Melanie Leupolz's return, plus Mia gives us insight on what she's seen and what to expect from new Chelsea signing Maika Hamano at Hammarby.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam and André stepped to the mics minutes after #CFCW's 1-1 draw at the Emirates!
While the result keeps the table as you were for Chelsea – three points clear but having played a game more than Arsenal and Manchester United – the match was full of highlights and lowlights, a poor (and costly) refereeing decision, a dramatic late equalizer, and a LOT more. So we react to and discuss it all!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam and André are back with another episode as they prepare for Chelsea FCW to get back to action for the first time in 2023.
They start off by discussing Arsenal's recent transactions and whether they think Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall's midfield gamble will pay off in the second half of the season. Then they get into Chelsea, what's been working, what tweaks manager Emma Hayes might be working on, the Spain training camp (and apparent grand prix??), and Melly's return!
Then they, of course, give their very specific predictions and let's just say the two are on polar opposite sides of what to expect from Sunday's clash!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us: Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André are back with the last pod of 2022! In this New Year's episode we review Chelsea's final match of the year, the 3-0 win over Paris St. Germain, give a shoutout to the first half MVPs, discuss recent contract renewals, share tearful goodbyes to Bethany England, discuss who we'd like to see the club bring in as a second striker, and give our New Year's Resolutions for the second half of Chelsea's season!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review, and we'll see you in 2023! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us: Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam is under the weather so André welcomed the great Mia Eriksson back to the fight club!
André gets the HIGHEST praise Mia can offer before they get into Chelsea's 1-1 UWCL draw against Real Madrid, and a cozy then anything but 3-2 win over Reading in their final league game of the year.
We discuss Chelsea's inability to secure three points in Madrid, and ask if it should take away from the team taking four points from away games in Paris and Madrid. We also look at the lineup, and Guro Reiten's continued excellence.
Then we get into Chelsea's brilliant first half against Reading, in which fellow Swede, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, seems to love terrible weather. We also discuss Jelena Cankovic's brace in her first start, and discuss why she's such an interesting (and potentially amazing) prospect for Chelsea.
Then we look ahead to Chelsea's final matches of the 2022, away versus Vllaznia and at home versus PSG. Mia and André predict the scores and goalscorers for the match in Albania and give our predictions on where the group will stand after the final matchday.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
The fight club is growin! This episode André welcomes lifelong Chelsea fan Sylvs from Shea Butter FC!
We review Chelsea FCW's massive 8-0 win over Leicester at King Power Stadium. We begin with our thoughts on the XI then chat about Guro Reiten's 1g/4a day, Fran Kirby playing centrally, plus one of the low key surprises of the season: Sophie Ingle 2.0.
Then we briefly look ahead to our second away match in the UWCL, versus Real Madrid in Spain. We discuss what we expect Real to do differently, and of course, in the spirit of pod co-founder Maryam Naz, we offer our predictions!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Sylvs:
Podcast - Shea Butter FC
Twitter - @SouthernSylvs
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André keep the guests coming as the great Mia Eriksson joins the fight club! Mia, Maryam and André discuss Chelsea's comfy cozy 3-0 win over Spurs at Stamford Bridge. We chat Emma's return, a surprisingly somewhat standard 343, the Sophie Ingle + Erin Cuthbert midfield partnership, Magdalena Eriksson at LCB vs. LB, Stamford Bridge vs. Kingsmeadow, and of course Erin Cuthbert's GotY contender!
Then we look ahead to Chelsea welcoming Real Madrid to Kingsmeadow for the first time. Maryam provides a full scouting report, Mia picks out players to watch, and we all give our VERY SPECIFIC predictions for the match (#octopus).
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow & Listen to Mia Eriksson:
Podcast - Their Pitch
Twitter - @mia_eriksson
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André decided to try something new this episode, so instead of us droning on about what to expect from Spurs in our upcoming match, we called in some real experts! N17 Women, a fan podcast dedicated to Tottenham Hotspur Women, joined us for an in-depth look at next weekend's opponent.
Caroline, Sian, Abbie and Rachel graciously allowed us to pepper them with questions about their club's history, recent investments, current squad and approach, what they're expecting from Chelsea, and of course, Maryam forces them to give predictions!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow N17 Women:
Twitter - @N17Women
Twitter - @cgstefko
Twitter - @Sian_Wallis
Twitter - @abbierosemeow
Twitter - @spurswomenblog
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André react to Chelsea FCW's 3-1 win over Manchester United WFC at Leigh Sports Village!
We discuss Chelsea's rather curious approach in the first half, formation shifts, and Sam Kerr & Lauren James breaking the deadlock and Erin Cuthbert securing the win with a third. We also assess Magdalena Eriksson's progression at left back and discuss the selection of Niamh Charles over Ève Périsset.
Then we look ahead to a tough string of matches in two weeks, starting with Tottenham Hotspur on 20 Nov and Real Madrid three days later.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André react to Chelsea FCW's 3-1 win over Manchester United WFC at Leigh Sports Village!
We discuss Chelsea's rather curious approach in the first half, formation shifts, and Sam Kerr & Lauren James breaking the deadlock and Erin Cuthbert securing the win with a third. We also assess Magdalena Eriksson's progression at left back and discuss the selection of Niamh Charles over Ève Périsset.
Then we look ahead to a tough string of matches in two weeks, starting with Tottenham Hotspur on 20 Nov and Real Madrid three days later.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André hop on the mics to discuss Chelsea FCW's 3-1 over Aston Villa. We discuss Lauren James' continued ascent and how important it is, particularly in matches like these. We also discuss Magdalena Eriksson at left back, and what it costs us to play her there, and if there are any solutions to getting the best out of all three starting caliber center backs.
We also look ahead to next week's clash with Manchester United, who still haven't conceded a goal in the WSL. Though we expect that to change, do we expect Chelsea to bag all three points? (Spoiler alert: obvs!)
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
===============
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André hop on the mics to discuss Chelsea FCW's 3-1 over Aston Villa. We discuss Lauren James' continued ascent and how important it is, particularly in matches like these. We also discuss Magdalena Eriksson at left back, and what it costs us to play her there, and if there are any solutions to getting the best out of all three starting caliber center backs.
We also look ahead to next week's clash with Manchester United, who still haven't conceded a goal in the WSL. Though we expect that to change, do we expect Chelsea to bag all three points? (Spoiler alert: obvs!)
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
===============
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
HELLO WE'RE BACK! Maryam & André return to discuss a slew of CFCW wins, including the 2-1 breaking of the Brighton curse!
We discuss the different ways in which Chelsea have won their last three matches. We pick out some top performers versus Brighton, including Johanna Kaneryd, Lauren James and Erin Cuthbert, and note why it was so much more than three points.
We also chat about the gameplan against PSG midweek and discuss why it's important that Chelsea are finding new ways to collect three points. And of course, Maryam forces André to make a prediction for next weekend's matchup with Aston Villa.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
===============
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
HELLO WE'RE BACK! Maryam & André return to discuss a slew of CFCW wins, including the 2-1 breaking of the Brighton curse!
We discuss the different ways in which Chelsea have won their last three matches. We pick out some top performers versus Brighton, including Johanna Kaneryd, Lauren James and Erin Cuthbert, and note why it was so much more than three points.
We also chat about the gameplan against PSG midweek and discuss why it's important that Chelsea are finding new ways to collect three points. And of course, Maryam forces André to make a prediction for next weekend's matchup with Aston Villa.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André jump on the mics to react to Chelsea's 3-1 win over West Ham. We talk about the fear that crept in after conceding an early goal, then the delight of dominating the match from then until the final whistle.
We highlight SUPER FRAN KIRBY, Sam Kerr's confidence, Katerina Svitkova and Eve Perisset's first starts, Erin Cuthbert excelling in midfield, Magda at LB, and the greatness of Lauren James reminding West Ham supporters of the scoreline.
We also do an impromptu peek at the upcoming England vs. USWNT friendly at Wembley where Maryam doesn't want to see any more fake tea sipped and André is concerned that revenge is forthcoming.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Links:
Lauren James and the benefits of patience, by Flo Lloyd-Hughes
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André react to a much needed 2-0 win over Manchester City!
It was a bit of a frustrating watch at times, but a Fran Kirby goal and a penalty from Maren Mjelde sealed our first three points of the season. We react to the lineup including the surprise welcoming back of Ann-Katrin Berger, the gameplan of tactical suffering, and it all working in the end. We also highlight brilliant performances from Lauren James and Kadeisha Buchanan.
Then we look ahead to Wednesday versus West Ham by giving predictions, and giving the one new player we most want to see get substantial minutes against the Hammers.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Links:
Lauren James and the benefits of patience, by Flo Lloyd-Hughes
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André react to a much needed 2-0 win over Manchester City!
It was a bit of a frustrating watch at times, but a Fran Kirby goal and a penalty from Maren Mjelde sealed our first three points of the season. We react to the lineup including the surprise welcoming back of Ann-Katrin Berger, the gameplan of tactical suffering, and it all working in the end. We also highlight brilliant performances from Lauren James and Kadeisha Buchanan.
Then we look ahead to Wednesday versus West Ham by giving predictions, and giving the one new player we most want to see get substantial minutes against the Hammers.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Links:
Lauren James and the benefits of patience, by Flo Lloyd-Hughes
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Well that wasn't supposed to happen. Maryam & André talk about Chelsea FCW's season opener away at Liverpool, that turned into a bit of a nightmare after an early penalty. Liverpool were awarded two penalties of their own to beat the champions 2-1 so we're here to wonder just what the hell went wrong.
It wasn't all bad though, we also pick out some encouraging performances that stood out even amongst all the bad. Plus, the return of Maryam pressuring André into a prediction for the next match.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André do a deep dive on Chelsea's newest and most intriguing signing yet, Jelena Čanković (and apologize for our suss pronunciations)! Then we review Chelsea's preseason results before both getting extremely giddy at the prospect of Grace Geyoro joining Chelsea.
We do some heard vs heart analysis and ask if she's really the 6 we need (hint: it depends!). We also review the fit of two other names that were linked this summer, including Amandine Henry and Keira Walsh.
After all that we discuss the 22/23 WSL season overall and ask if we've done enough to get through the group stage this season. We also discuss why Chelsea's UWCL campaign beyond the groups is contingent upon what happens before the transfer window shuts.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
===============
Links:
Jelena Čanković's absurd highlight reel
Grace Geyoro's comments on potentially joining Chelsea
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Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Maryam & André return for season THREE of Fran Kirby's Fight Club!
It's been a hectic summer full of int'l tournaments and, of course, IT COMING HOME! But it's also been a hectic summer for Chelsea FCW, who've signed Kadeisha Buchanan, Ève Périsset, Kateřina Svitková, Johanna Kaneryd and Lucy Watson! We review each and every signing, where they might fit into the team and whether we think we're done adding players.
Then we identify who we'd sign if the Perfect In Every Way Transfer Genie gave us just one wish. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
OFFICIALLY THE ONLY TEAM TO WIN THE FA CUP TWICE IN THE SAME SEASON!
CHELSEA 3 - 2 MANCHESTER CITY
GIVE. US. OUR. TROPHY. RIGHT. NOW. OH. AND. SOME. CAKE. TOO PLS. THANKS!
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CHELSEA FCW ARE BACK-TO-BACK-TO-BACK WSL CHAMPIONS!!!
THREE CONSECUTIVE LEAGUE TITLES!!!
THREE!!! LEAGUE TITLES!!!
CONSECUTIVELY!!!
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André & Maryam are back to discuss the nerve shredding match versus Birmingham City. We chat about our reactions to the starting XI, the first 10-15 minutes that looked like Chelsea were gonna go on a rampage, then how the last ~80 minutes took years off our lives.
Thankfully, Pernille Harder has ice in her veins and dispatched a vital penalty to put us ahead. We talk about Pernille's performance, missing Erin Cuthbert in the first half and how she changed the second, and the master of goalkeeping dark arts, Ann-Katrin Berger.
This is the final week of the WSL season so we look ahead to Arsenal's next two matches and our finale against Manchester United. We give our predictions for the final matchday and let's just say, LONDON IS BLUE.
Then we bid an emotional farewell to Jonna Andersson, Drew Spence and Ji So-yun, who meant a lot to this project and where the team is now.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review. #CFCW💙💙
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC!
The Blues suffered an absurd deflected own goal and red card dismissal all in the first half, but survived to battle back to claim all three points in their first of two matches versus Spurs this week! It was an intense and eventful match, so André was delighted to welcome Maryam back to talk about it all!
We relive our thoughts during the bad times, then heap praise on Guro Reiten, Zecira Musovic, Sam Kerr, Pernille Harder and of course, scorer of the best goal on the day, Jessie Fleming!
Then, recent Champions League matches inspire André to wonder if the top teams in the WSL are falling behind. And, of course, since Maryam is back she doesn't let the podcast end without predictions (and makes a Steven Gerrard reference for some reason)!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review. #CFCW💙💙
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC!
Chelsea faced Arsenal for the second time in the FA Cup during this season (time is a flat circle) and for the second time they beat their London rivals without allowing a shot on target. Maryam is away so André welcomes Chloe from @TheCFCWSocial to the fight club to talk all about it!
They talk lineups, Chelsea's depth, our response to a scary first forty minutes, brilliant defensive performances, two absolute BANGERS, and painting London bluuuuuuuuuuue (again)!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review. #CFCW💙💙
Follow Chloe:
Twitter - @englionesses
Follow CFCW Social:
Twitter - @TheCFCWSocial
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Twitter - @FranKirbyFC!
The international break means no Chelsea match to review so Maryam & André take a different approach and get into major storylines/things to watch ahead of the EUROS + key World Cup Qualifiers!
If you weren't ready for the EUROS now, you will be after this episode! We dive into England, including Bethany England's no good very bad luck and the prospect of a devastating English attack if Fran Kirby is able to play. André warns also against doing the 'It's Coming Home' thing again, lest tragedy ensue a second time.
Then we move on to talk about the ridiculously talented Sweden and Norway squads. André is forced to relive traumatic memories at the hands of Sweden, while the two become giddy with delight at the possibility of a CGH - Hegerberg - Reiten Norway front three.
After that we move onto key World Cup Qualifiers and talk Sophie Ingle's Wales and Erin Cuthbert's Scotland. Join us for this round the world roundup! Please listen, subscribe, rate and review. #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Naturally, we think Fran Kirby said all that needed to be said about Chelsea's 5-0 brushing aside of Reading. However, we have a pod to do! Maryam will return next week so André welcomed Jessy Parker Humphreys to the fight club!
The two discuss the dominant win over Reading, if any nerves were felt before the match (and 39 minutes in), Erin Cuthbert emulating The Terminator, Sam Kerr's outrageous league record, Guro Reiten's superb form, Magda Eriksson picking up where she left off, and THE BETHAISSANCE!
Wasn't all fun and games though, we also discuss the peculiar position Chelsea find themselves in with their latest formation, what's missing in midfield with Melanie Leupolz out, plus how this newfound success in a 352 is likely to change once Pernille Harder and/or Fran Kirby return. Then, with the FA Cup semifinal against Arsenal an international break away, André absolves Jessy from making a prediction but asks an even #eviler question instead.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review – thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow Jessy:
Twitter - @jessyjph
Podcasts - Box to Box Podcast | Offside Rule | London Is Blue
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
CHELSEA FCW SCORED NINE GOALS, THREE IN UNDER TEN MINUTES AND SIX BY HALFTIME!!!
'3 - Reiten
'5 - Kerr
'7 - England
'11 - Nouwen
'28 - England
'45+5 - Reiten
'47 - Kerr
'88 - James
'90 - Fleming
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
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Maryam & André were buzzing after a 5-0 win over Birmingham City in the FA Cup quarterfinals. We discuss CAPTAIN MAGDA's return and what her goal meant to the team, and the rest of the match. We also analyze the performances of Bethany England, Niamh Charles, Drew Spence and Ji So-yun, and freak out all over again about THAT goal (you know the one).
After that we look ahead to a return to league play and the first of two remaining games against Spurs, and why Angry Pernille will be key. And it wouldn't be an FKFC pod without Maryam making André give a prediction. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Chelsea pulled out a heroic last gasp goal versus Aston Villa to steal all three points and Maryam & Rob from @TheCFCWSocial witnessed it LIVE! André, sadly, was not, so he decides to pepper the other two with questions about what they saw and heard during and after the match!
We get into the formation and how it shifted, Emma Hayes throwing the proverbial kitchen sink, who was missed more: Fran Kirby or Pernille Harder, Zecira Musovic's form improving, why we've struggled versus Aston Villa's press ever since Jill Scott got there, and of course SAM MF'N KERR! All that plus words for those attempting to police women whether in the press box or the pitch, and why this win felt bigger than three points. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
Follow Rob on Twitter @RJPJournalism & @TheCFCWSocial!
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Settle in for a tactical deep dive episode as Maryam & André welcome their first guest, author of Pressing Matters and Chelsea FC Women: Europe's Next Powerhouse, Abdullah Abdullah to the fight club!
We pepper Abdullah with questions about Chelsea's evolving structures, formations and personnel this season. We dive into the back 3 versus the back 4, getting the best out of Pernille Harder, Erin Cuthbert and Jessie Fleming's best positions, the CB dilemma now that Magda is nearing a return, Chelsea's prognosis for the rest of the season, and LOTS more!
Then, in true Maryam fashion, she makes us all give predictions ahead of the Leicester match. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André revel in a necessary three points collected over Manchester City! We discuss the new formation, Jess Carter's dominance, Erin Cuthbert's omnipresence, Jess Fleming's versatility, and of course Goal Machine Guro!
Then we talk about why Emma Hayes' tactical changes had us scared and uncertain about the result, even though we dominated the majority of the match. Maryam then, having been credentialed for Arsenal-Man United, tells us what she saw from the Gunners, including some comments for Jonas Eidevall that don't quite match what she saw on the pitch.
We, of course, then give our predictions ahead of the biggest league match of the season! Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
(Credit to @MarcJWallace on Twitter for the episode title!)
Maryam and André react to Chelsea's second and third matches of a full week's slate!
We begin with the 2-0 win over West Ham and dive into the main question: Why didn't Bethany England start? We get into the Hammer's defensive approach and what changed once England joined the fray at halftime. Then we chat about Guro Reiten's day versus Aston Villa, and how her performance his what was actually a much tougher match than the scoreline indicates.
We also chat a bit about Chelsea's long-term plan after two transfer windows of not recruiting players who are immediate upgrades. With Lyon resurgent, PSG remaining a force, and the snap back to form by longtime nemesis Wolfsburg, we discuss whether Chelsea are in danger of being left behind.
Then, of course, we preview a monumental run of matches, beginning with predictions for our league cup semifinal against a rebuilt Manchester United. Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André react to the joy of seeing CFCW back on the pitch, the happiness of a Harder hat trick versus West Ham, the concern of conceding two, and the sadness that our end of 2021 league form carried over against Brighton.
We talk missed chances, lineup decisions, and what we think is behind the lack of clinical finishing. We also look bigger picture to see what may need to be adjusted if Chelsea are to get back to dominating across competitions.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Well, another CFCW match was postponed due to positive results plus injuries. Maryam & André discuss the continuation of the outbreak we'd hoped we'd left in the last days of 2021, what we hope for the team, plus air some frustrations about this whole pandemic thing as the globe enters a third year of this mess.
Then we, with hope and crossed fingers, turn our attention to Everton. We discuss the Toffees' season so far and why they might be misfiring despite a lot of investment in the squad. We also chat about Chelsea going at least one month between kickoffs and the impact that may have.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Chelsea FCW desperately needed a break, but we have missed them, and finally they're back! The new year for the Blues starts off with a major test against surprisingly 3rd place Spurs.
Maryam looks into what our London rivals have been doing well and how they've earned their spot, surprisingly, one point below Chelsea (though the Blues have a game in hand). She delivers a deep dive on what their manager has changed, as well as some standout performers who Chelsea need to be wary of.
Then we shift to discuss all things Chelsea! Including new signing Alsu Adbullina, whether we think Emma Hayes will stick with the 343 for the second half of the season, and which positions (besides true wide defensive players) could be addressed in the transfer window. It's an all-inclusive look to get you ready for Friday. That's right, FRIDAY 7pm GMT/2pm EST! Come on Chelsea!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Chelsea ended 2021 in a very unfamiliar and uncharacteristic way, and Maryam & André chat about the various factors that led to a run of unprecedented results. We then look ahead to 2022, and the team responding as we know Chelsea can and, under Emma Hayes, always do.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André try to figure out what on earth has happened to Chelsea in their last two matches. We discuss any potential patterns, ways to solve some of the problems that crept up, and ask if perhaps it was just too much of a swing from the high of a dominant FA Cup Final win over a London rival straight into midseason grind mode.
But don't worry, we also take some time to sift through our hurt and subpar performances to find some good. Then we make our predictions for a big Champions League battle away at Wolfsburg and ask the question on every Chelsea supporter's mind: Is Christmas cancelled?
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
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OH! MY! GOD!
Maryam & André react to Chelsea's 3-0 battering of Arsenal in the FA Cup Final. The Blues didn't allow a single shot on target and the scoreline could have genuinely been far worse for the north Londoners. We talk Super Fran Kirby getting it all started, Chelsea's ravenous press, Sam Kerr doing Sam Kerr things, Jess Carter handling Miedema, and more! What a performance, what a win, and what a way to secure the 2020/21 quadruple. LONDON. IS. BLUE!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
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Scheduling issues prevented us from dropping an episode immediately after the 5-0 win over Birmingham so Maryam & André are making it up to you! In this episode we revisit the dominant win over Birmingham and spotlight some key performers including Sam Kerr, Drew Spence, Lauren James and (obvs) SUPER FRAN KIRBY.
Then we shift our attention to the 2020/21 FA Cup Final versus Arsenal. We dive into their recent form, where some clubs have had success against them, a few Chelsea lineup questions, and drop our predictions!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André rushed to their microphones after the final whistle of Chelsea's 4-0 smashing of Manchester City at the Academy Stadium! They get into how fun the match was, discuss Emma Hayes' gameplan (which she hinted at on a live podcast), Gareth Taylor being out of his depth, and which of the goals were our favorite. Plus, André continues the Jess Fleming Propaganda Campaign!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André review Chelsea FCW's 1-0 win away at Aston Villa!
We talk Emma Hayes surprising us with a formation, Carla Ward sticking with the same formation that frustrated Arsenal for the first half, key individual performances, plus JESS FLEMING PROPAGANDA!
They both also take a broader view of the packed schedule ahead and discuss upcoming fixtures with Servette in the UWCL and Manchester City (again) away (again) in the league. Then we do André's favorite part and deliver predictions for Servette!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Hello again listeners, sorry to have left you for two weeks, life be life'in! No worries though, because Maryam & André are back with a fresh episode and PLENTY to talk about!
First we review Chelsea's narrow 2-1 win away at Juventus prior to the international break, including Emma Hayes shifting the team out of the 343 for the first time this season. Then we discuss the 3-0 win over Manchester City where we talk matchups, Erin Cuthbert, Melanie Leupolz, Aniek Nouwen and Jess Fleming. We also laugh at Gareth Taylor's postgame comments that had a few people scratching their heads.
Chelsea's FA Cup Semifinal win kicks off a hectic period for the Blues, we run down the list of fixtures in a busy month and make our predictions for the upcoming away matches against Aston Villa and Servette!
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André survived CFCW's recent attacks on their fragile hearts and are back to discuss two matches that were wild and scary in two very different ways.
First, we look back on the 3-3 draw versus Wolfsburg. We discuss Pernille Harder's Revenge Tour, and how she's suddenly the player stepping up when Chelsea need a goal. We also dissect what was a beautiful and well-controlled start to the match that everyone forgot thanks to panic and calamity at the back gifting Wolfsburg goals and Chelsea putting Chelsea on their back foot.
Then we review the match at the weekend, where Pernille Harder saved the day yet again, but we also spotlight a brilliant performance from Jessie Fleming. We also discuss ways Chelsea can find more success against clubs who refuse to step out. We also chat about potential consequences of Chelsea not being able to rely on a secondary XI against milder opposition.
We wrap up with André's favorite segment, predictions! We look ahead to our second UWCL group stage match against Juventus and beg, pray, plead, and wish for a comfortable win – because our hearts need it.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! Thank you for listening! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter @FranKirbyFC!
We're back as a whole! A massive thank you to Maryam for holding down the pod alone while André was away!
A LOT has happened and is upcoming so your reunited hosts do their best to keep you up to date. First we review Chelsea's 3-1 win over Brighton, including a review on how the 3-4-3 is shaping up, if there's a preferred XI now, and how the system is complementing Reiten and Harder.
Then we preview the start of this season's Champions League campaign, which begins, of course, with our 917th CL match against Wolfsburg! Maryam catches you up on the Wolves' current form, formation and tendencies, then we discuss whether this iteration of the German club will look anything like the remarkably quick version that pinned us back in the first leg of last year's competition.
We also try to figure out the correct way to say DAZN, gush about Fran Kirby's hat-trick of assists, and André takes a detour to rant about Pernille Harder's #disrepectful goal against Manchester United.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter at @FranKirbyFC!
A triple-header of analysis follows, including a review of the United game, and preview insight of both the FA Cup semi-final against Birmingham on Wednesday, and the WSL clash with Brighton on the weekend. SPOILER ALERT: you'll be one host short, Andre is getting his tan on in Peru. All yours Maryam :)
Maryam & André return to your ears to talk about Chelsea FCW's 4-0 win over Everton!
Naturally, we discuss Fran Kirby's absolute STUNNER of a goal and take a look at how the first choice front three got on in their first foray in the 3-4-3. Of course this also means that André once again won't shutup about Pernille Harder.
We also talk about Erin Cuthbert's impact from right wingback, how Sophie Ingle & Ji So-yun complemented one another in midfield, and Jess Carter's impact in the sweeper role of the back three. Then we look ahead at our upcoming match away at Manchester United and process our feelings about seeing a familiar foe in our Champions League group.
Please listen, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter at @FranKirbyFC!
Maryam & André react to an intense match at The Emirates, and lament Arsenal's first competitive win over Chelsea since 2018.
We review our predictions and, like Chelsea, both get 0 points for our performance. Then we take a look at Emma Hayes' new 343 formation! We break it down line by line and discuss what worked and what didn't, plus André won't shutup about Pernille Harder.
Then we look ahead to CFCW's next match, an at home clash versus a revamped Everton side. Can the defensive issues be addressed by then? Will some different names be in the starting XI? We discuss!
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us on Twitter at @FranKirbyFC!
And we! Are! Back!
It's been a while, too long in fact, but Maryam & André are back with a brand new episode! As Chelsea FCW heads into their season opener we had a LOT to talk about, so we broke this episode up into several parts to make sure we could fit it all in.
We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of new signings Aniek Nouwen and Lauren James, plus where they might fit into the squad this year. Then we ask the question: did we do enough? With Lyon reloading and Barcelona continuing to improve an already dominant and Champions League-winning squad, we discuss who might need to step up to make sure we're not kicking ourselves for not being more active in the transfer window.
Then we talk about expectations for the season, what tweaks Emma Hayes might make to the squad, and the new formation André thinks Chelsea will morph into! Then we get you set for the big season opener, away at Arsenal on Sunday, 5 September at The Emirates! Maryam breaks down Arsenal's new signings and we both (André, begrudgingly) give our score predictions!
Please listen, subscribe, share, rate and review! We're excited to be back and can't wait for the season to kickoff! #CFCW💙💙
Follow us:
Twitter - @FranKirbyFC
Well, that stung a bit didn't it?
Maryam & André discard the typical tactical breakdown and analysis in favor of allowing ourselves to feel and process the sadness of losing a UWCL Final in that way.
So join us to commiserate and process a harsh lesson learned, but also to them find perspective, and look ahead for what still should be an even better Chelsea in the end. We love this club, and are sad, but it's been a wonderful journey, so let's celebrate it, because this isn't an end, it is only a beginning.
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
The Champions League Final is nearly here!
Maryam and André break down this historic match in the only way they know how: tactics, analysis, player spotlights, and – much to André's chagrin – predictions!
One of these teams is going to lift the UWCL trophy as the first new winner of the past five years, we tell you what Chelsea need to do, be wary of, and gameplan against if it's to be them!
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Links referenced: Om Arvind on Real Madrid's tactics versus Barcelona - https://www.managingmadrid.com/2021/2/2/22260720/analysis-david-aznar-el-clasico-tactics-barcelona-femeni-4-1-real-madrid-femenino-highlights-review Kieran Doyle's video breakdown - https://twitter.com/KierDoyle/status/1392074757349117959?s=20
CHELSEA FCW ARE THE 2020/21 WSL CHAMPIONS!!!
Maryam and André celebrate Chelsea's marvelously ruthless 2020/21 WSL season! We look back at some key moments and narratives about the team, how Chelsea and Emma Hayes overcame them, and how hindsight reveals just how dominant the team was. We also up the terror level for the rest of the league by discussing some ways in which Chelsea could get even better!
Listen in as we wrap up a fantastic, emotional, thrilling, ruthless, and title winning WSL season! #KTBFFH #CFCW
WE! ARE! IN! THE! CHAMPIONS! LEAGUE! FINAL!
What an incredible, outstanding, resilient, brave, and immense performance in a rollercoaster of a match! Maryam & André react just moments after the final whistle to the biggest win in Chelsea FCW history!
We try our best to plow through our emotions to analyze the match and give Emma Hayes' boldness, Niamh Charles' versatility, Fran Kirby's toughness, and Magda Eriksson's influence the proper attention they deserve! We also shoutout Jess Carter, Sophie Ingle, Pernille Harder, and JIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!
Join us as we stumble, stammer and ramble our way through a 4-1 semifinal win over Bayern Munich that puts us IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL!
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Maryam & André react to Chelsea's 2-1 loss in the first leg of their UWCL semifinal versus Bayern Munich.
They discuss lineup choices (some forced, some hmm) and areas Bayern keyed on, plus dissect the performances of Hanna Glas, Pernille Harder, Jess Carter, Guro Reiten and Fran Kirby.
Then they shift focus to the second leg at Kingsmeadow and discuss the changes Emma Hayes is likely to make, and what crucial thing must happen for the Blues to have a chance at winning the match without conceding.
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
Hellooooooo Blues! Maryam and André are back to review Chelsea versus Manchester City!
It wasn't pretty, but the (correct shade of) Blues got the result and the point needed to remain two points ahead at the top of the table! We break down two contrasting halves that saw Chelsea go into half with the lead via some excellent work by Sam Kerr then hold on for dear life in the second!
Emma Hayes called the second half "painful", and we agree! We discuss the impact of Magda Eriksson, Jess Carter's performance at right back, plus the good and bad of Millie Bright.
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Maryam and André used the international break to study up on our next Champions League opponent: Bayern Munich!
But first we recap Chelsea's 6-0 romping of Birmingham City, then discuss the players' letter to ownership, as well as the response.
Then we dive deep into Bayern Munich by tracking the trajectory of their league form, identifying the players to watch out for, discussing their tactics, and revealing what Chelsea must immediately get right to avoid a repeat of the first leg versus Wolfsburg in the quarterfinal round. Give us a listen! #CFCW
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HAPPY WE BEAT WOFLSBURG POD! Maryam & André review Chelsea FCW's 5-1 aggregate win over Wolfsburg in the Champions League quarterfinal!
We spotlight the tactics, performances, and key moments that allowed Chelsea and Emma Hayes to finally clear this hurdle and turn the tables on Wolfsburg in the Champions League.
We also discuss the tremendous video of Emma Hayes' instructions to the team during the match that has been doing the rounds on Twitter. We discuss how excellent it is to hear that level of detail, what it says about the tactical mind of Emma Hayes, and how it reveals the tremendous connection and respect that she has for the players.
Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
Welcome to Fran Kirby's Fight Club!
In this episode Maryam and André review Chelsea FCW's 2-0 win over Aston Villa via two more #Kerrby connections, then shift their focus to the second leg of Chelsea's Champions League tie with Wolfsburg (which the Blues lead 2-1 on aggregate).
We review the first leg, in which Chelsea didn't at all look like themselves but still somehow escaped with the win and the narrow advantage. We review what went wrong, and tweaks Emma Hayes may make to ensure the same doesn't happen again.
We also break down Sam Kerr's incredible recent form, and the telepathic connection between her and Fran Kirby that is proving impossible to stop at every level — then nervously give our predictions! Please subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
Maryam and André are in your ears yet again with a quick overview of Chelsea running rampant at Walton Hall Park before turning our attentions toward the Champions League quarterfinal.
We then break down the full UWCL draw before focusing on Chelsea's tie with Wolfsburg. The German club are comfortably second in the Frauen Bundesliga but are clearly missing the goalscoring fireworks Pernille Harder provided -- because she's BLUUUUE!! We focus on the problems they could cause our newly reshuffled back line in light of Maren Mjelde's season-ending injury and give our predictions for both ties. #CFCW
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Maryam, podcast host and writer at Squawka, and André Carlisle, writer at WAGNH, go bonkers over Chelsea's rampaging play that secured the first trophy of the season. We dissect goals, express overjoyed relief at finally getting a Sam Kerr backflip in blue, talk about the best player in England -- Fran Kirby, note the sadness and potential long-term impact of Maren Mjelde's injury, and discuss the quick back-to-business midweek match against Everton.
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Maryam and André take you on a quick review of Chelsea FCW's 2-0 win away at West Ham, courtesy of Sam Kerr and Bethany England.
Then we react to the absurd, ridiculous, amazing, brilliant, incredible, hilarious, magnificent 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of our Champions League tie. We then preview the second leg, discuss Captain Magda's injury and wish her superhuman healing powers, plus point out some things the Blues will need to be wary of to ensure safe passage into the next round -- oh, we also give our predictions!
Subscribe, rate and review (please)! #CFCW
Maryam and André get you set for the Blues resuming their Champions League run by welcoming Atlético Madrid Women into Kingsmeadow!
Both teams haven't played a competitive match since the 14th of February. We discuss that, Emma Hayes' probable approach to the match, the tactic Chelsea need to be prepared for, Atleti players to keep an eye on, plus our predictions for the first leg!
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Chelsea FCW dispatched of Arsenal in impressive fashion, then went to Bristol and bombarded The Robins in an avalanche of attacks and, eventually, goals. We chat about Chelsea's performances in both matches, and spotlight some of our favorite goals.
Then we get into the tactical tweak from Emma Hayes that has unleashed the attack and led to the Blues piling on the goals. We also give special shoutouts to Sam Kerr for her unselfishness and tireless pressing work, and Pernille Harder for scoring six goals in her last three starts in all competitions!
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Chelsea..........lost???
Your hosts review a thoroughly frustrating day at Kingsmeadow; then marvel at the team finding a way to never have that game for two years. We also talk about reports surrounding Emma Hayes and, relatedly, women's football overall, give an ode to Fran Kirby, plus look ahead to a big match versus Arsenal – which just got a lot bigger. Subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
Chelsea FCW are back to scoring goals in bunches! Four versus Manchester City in the Conti Cup quarterfinal, four versus Aston Villa, and another four against Spurs. We recap all the goals and break down the win versus Spurs in which Chelsea looked out of sorts for the first ~20 minutes, then did that thing they do, and that we love. Plus we give a special shoutout to the Leupolz-Ji pivot!
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Chelsea FCW extend their unbeaten record with a victory that knocks Manchester United off the top of the WSL table!
It was a big match with some equally big performances. We talk about Magdalena Eriksson, Erin Cuthbert, Ji So-yun, and of course SUPER FRAN KIRBY. Listen, share, subscribe, rate and review! #CFCW
Do we even need a description this week? Fran Kirby scored FOUR goals in ONE match! FOUR! Three in the first half for A PERFECT HAT-TRICK!! WE LITERALLY COULD NOT WAIT TO TALK ABOUT IT!!!!
[professional pause]
We also discuss the Melanie Leupolz-Erin Cuthbert midfield, the Millie Bright-Sophie Ingle CB pairing, and look ahead to next week's titanic top-of-the-table clash with Manchester United. Subscribe! Rate! Review! #CFCW
We made it to 2021! We hope you had a healthy and safe holiday and are ready for the return of Chelsea FCW — and what a return it will be! Six matches in just over two weeks!
To prepare, we did our second Deep Dive episode, this time on Chelsea's defense. We break down by Eriksson and Bright are the perfect complementary pair, what Emma Hayes is doing to help the fullbacks in transition, Jonna Andersson's growth, and a lot more! Give us a listen, rate and review — Fran Kirby will be pleased! :)
Chelsea's final scheduled match of 2020 was postponed due to positive COVID-19 tests, and the FKFC crew wishes all affected persons a full and speedy recovery. In this episode we reflect on the first half of the season, look ahead to a torrid start to 2021, let you in on some exciting things to look forward to in future pods and, above all, thank each of our listeners for supporting us!
Stay safe, have as happy a holiday season as you can, and we'll be back in your feeds in the new year!
Your favorite fight club is back with a surprise guest (hint: 🐶)!
Join us as we breakdown Chelsea FCW’s 1-0 versus Brighton, delight in Sam Kerr’s fourth goal in two games, heap praise on Ji’s performance, and spotlight Millie Bright’s contributions! We also take a moment to discuss the overall effectiveness of our attack when teams work hard to deny Kerrby. Give us a listen, rating, and review! #CFCW
We're back!
Your favorite CFCW chatterboxes chat about the team's return to league action with a fairly weird 3-2 win over West Ham. They celebrate Sam Kerr's hat-trick, heap loads of praise on (who else?) Fran Kirby, and look ahead to the Blues' return to Champions League play, and next league match versus Brighton. Subscribe, rate and review!
The Finishing Special!
With the postponement of our Conti Cup match extending the break before our next match, we decided to do something a bit different! This episode focuses on ChelseaFCW's finishing struggles.
We look at the team as a whole, then drill down on particular players who stand out. We also attempt to pose solutions that could give the team the best opportunity to convert more of the chances they're creating. Give us a listen and hit us up on Twitter (@FranKirbyFC) to continue the discussion! And remember to subscribe, rate and review! <3
Well, that was weird! Chelsea started the match against Arsenal about as flatly as they've played in well over a year. The second half was changed due to a sub and things were getting back to normal until Arsenal scored. Then, Chelsea equalized due to a wicked (and hilarious) deflection and own goal from Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy.
Your hosts discuss the match and all its weirdness, ponder the use of subs, and laugh at Arsenal scoring the goal that ensures that their streak of not being able to beat us will extend into (at least) 2021 — ArsenaLOL!
Another great week for CFCW has your hosts flying high! Chelsea get a comfortable 2-0 over London rivals Tottenham, then extract a measure of revenge on Everton via a 4-0 scoreline. We discuss the Ingle-Leupolz pivot that smothered the Toffees, the return of Bethany England and her goals, and Pernille Harder scoring an outrageous goal! We also get into some, hmm, interesting comments by Emma Hayes after the big win.
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Chelsea FCW—and thus we—ARE BACK!
Chelsea end their three-week break with a #ContiCup match versus Tottenham Hostpur, then get a chance at some early season revenge against Everton, this time in the league. Your hosts preview both matches, give updates from the international break, and make their predictions for the week's matches! Listen, rate and review!
Chelsea FCW doesn't have a match this week or next but your hosts couldn't possibly go that long without talking about the team. So we hopped on Twitter (@FranKirbyFC) and solicited questions from you — our lovely listeners! The result? Our very first Q&A pod!
Maryam and André answer questions on Chelsea's January transfer window, tactical advancements in the WSL, which former Chelsea player they would want in the current squad, and more. Plus, André has a plan to cleanse the evil from Chelsea's third kit. (Disclaimer: Fran Kirby's Fight Club assumes no liability in the unlikely event of an accidental demonic conjuring.)
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WOWOWOW! Your hosts are absolutely buzzing after a fantastic week in which Chelsea FCW faced their two primary rivals and came away victorious over both. Their FA Cup match versus the Gunners ended in a familiar 4-1 scoreline, and four days later the Citizens were heading back to Manchester with a 3-1 L.
Maryam and André discuss keys to Chelsea's dominance, Fran Kirby going supernova on poor Demi Stokes, Erin Cuthbert's wildcard role, and why you should never play poker with Ann-Katrin Berger. Give us a listen!
Maryam and André breakdown Chelsea's somewhat hollow 1-0 win over Birmingham City. They also talk about being well off of on their predictions, ask if it means anything that Sam Kerr, Ji So-Yun and Pernille Harder were left on the bench, and André wants to fly to London to give a certain linesman an eye exam.
Give us a listen, and if your heart compels you, rate us and leave a review!
Maryam and André used the international break to look ahead to our 2019/20 FA Cup matchup (because 2020 is nothing if not weird), check-in on players on international duties as well as some back at Cobham, and reflect on things that have surprised us so far in the season — that's right, all of two competitive matches into the season! Also, Maryam continues her quest to pile on the points in our yet-to-be-defined predictions game!
Give us a listen! Please rate and review, it makes it easier to find for others who might enjoy this podcast. Thank you!
Maryam and André are feeling much better after Chelsea's 9-0 win over Brighton. The Blues ran rampant in their season home debut, having nine (NINE!) different goalscorers including new signings Melanie Leupolz, Niamh Charles and Pernille Harder bagging their firsts for Chelsea. Also, Fran Kirby scored her first WSL goal since May 2019 after battling pericarditis for the better part of the last calendar year.
Give us a listen! Rate and review if you want to be extra kind!
Maryam and André react to Chelsea's frustrating 1-1 result away at Manchester, and try to figure out if it meant more that Chelsea (Sam Kerr in particular) missed chances or that last season's midfield struggles against United continued. Also continuing, the Pod Curse™: André whines and begs and hopes for Lucy Bronze, who has just re-signed with Manchester City. :/
Your hosts are back and buzzing after a thrilling 2-0 win over Manchester City in the Community Shield. Maryam and André react to Millie Bright deciding to do it herself, Fran Kirby's return to the starting XI, Melanie Leupolz's debut, Chelsea's riotous first-half press, Sam Kerr being very un-Sam Kerr, highlight some areas of concern, and make predictions ahead of the league opener away at United. Whew!
Give us a listen, and follow us on Twitter at @FranKirbyFC!
Welcome to Episode 2! Maryam and André discuss Chelsea's upcoming tussles with the Manchesters, our shiny new midfield, Gareth Taylor's appointment, Press and Heath going to United, Rose Lavelle, and Sam Mewis being large. #CFCW
Welcome to the debut of Fran Kirby's Fight Club, a podcast dedicated to Chelsea Women's Football Club.
In this inaugural episode your hosts André Carlisle (Twitter: @not_carlisle) and Maryam Naz (Twitter: @MNaz98) introduce themselves, give a bit of origin on the pod's namesake, and get you set for Chelsea's 20/21 WSL season.