Full Breakdown
Tottenham Hotspur Women Begin 2026/27 WSL Campaign with 3-1 Victory Over West Ham United
9/7/2026, 8:18:11 AM
Match Overview
On September 6, 2026, Tottenham Hotspur Women hosted West Ham United Women at Brisbane Road in East London for the opening round of the 2026/27 Barclays Women’s Super League. Tottenham secured a 3-1 win, taking three points and temporarily sitting atop the league table after matchday one. The home side opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Signe Gaupset’s half-volley struck the post and rebounded for a quick tap-in by Julie Blakstad. A minute later, Gaupset supplied a through ball that Kirsty Hanson converted, giving Spurs a 2-0 lead at the half-hour mark. Hanson added a third in the second half with a curling left-footed strike from the edge of the box. West Ham’s Viviane Asseyi scored a stoppage-time consolation, but the result remained a decisive statement win for Tottenham.
Key Players and Contributions
- Kirsty Hanson – The former Aston Villa forward made an immediate impact, netting a brace on her competitive debut. Her first goal came from a deflected effort after a Gaupset pass; the second was a 20-yard curler into the top corner.
- Signe Gaupset – The Norway international opened the scoring and provided the assist for Hanson’s first goal, showcasing her ability to drive the team forward.
- Caitlin Dijkstra – Made her competitive debut in central defence, helping to organize a backline that limited West Ham’s chances.
- Toko Koga – Suffered a brief injury scare but recovered quickly and continued to contribute defensively.
- Drew Spence – Served as captain for the 2026/27 season, anchoring the midfield alongside Eveliina Summanen and Victoria Pelova.
Tactical Setup and New Signings
Head Coach Martin Ho fielded a starting XI that blended experience with several summer arrivals. The back four comprised Caitlin Dijkstra, Amanda Nilden, Toko Koga and Julie Blakstad. Midfield featured new signings Kirsty Hanson, Drew Spence (captain) and Eveliina Summanen, while the attack was led by Signe Gaupset and Victoria Pelova on the bench. The team employed a patient build-up from the back, exploiting space on the flanks and using quick transitions to catch West Ham off-balance.
Coach Martin Ho’s Assessment (Official Statements)
After the match, Martin Ho praised the collective performance, highlighting Hanson’s “stunning left-footed curler” and the team’s “healthy advantage” at halftime. Ho also acknowledged that small adjustments will come with “time and experience,” particularly in maintaining fluidity and defensive solidity throughout the season.
Implications for the Season
The opening victory provides Tottenham with a strong psychological foundation as they aim for a top-four finish. The immediate impact of multiple summer signings suggests that the squad’s depth and quality have improved, offering a platform to challenge established contenders. Defensive stability, demonstrated by Dijkstra’s debut and the back line’s composure, will be crucial as the campaign progresses.
Upcoming Fixtures
Spurs’ next league test is an away match against Liverpool, offering another opportunity to consolidate their early momentum. West Ham, sitting at the bottom of the table after the loss, will look to rebound in their upcoming home game against London City Lionesses.
