Putellas stars as City breeze past United in WSL opener

The newly assembled squad dominated proceedings with clinical efficiency. An own goal from Julia Zigiotti—who tangled with Alanna Kennedy in the box—handed City the opening goal, before Danielle van de Donk's composed flick in the 82nd minute sealed victory with under 10 minutes remaining.

Simi Awujo grabbed a late consolation for United with virtually the last kick, their sole shot on target, underscoring the gap between the two sides. Manager Eder Maestre praised his team's control, though he acknowledged the opening half lacked their desired intensity. "I think we were very dominant through the whole game," he told Sky Sports. "Starting with a win is very important to keep building confidence."

New recruits Rosa Kafaji, Mapi Leon, Putellas and Janni Thomsen all impressed on debut, while Mary Earps and Kadidiatou Diani remained unused substitutes. Owner Michele Kang watched from the stands as London City's fresh project got off to the perfect start. Maestre cautioned his side must maintain their second-half intensity across the full 90 minutes going forward, according to Sky Sports.