Notts County Women edged West Bromwich WFC Women 1-0 in their English FA Women’s Cup tie on 25 October 2026, with a single decisive goal settling a tight and hard-fought contest.

Match overview

West Bromwich WFC Women and Notts County Women met in the Women’s FA Cup with little separating the sides for long periods. Notts County Women ultimately claimed a 1-0 victory, but the scoreline told only part of the story. West Bromwich WFC Women defended with commitment and had moments of their own going forward, while Notts County showed patience and composure in possession. The match was decided by one moment of quality in the final third, and from there Notts County managed the game well, limiting their opponents’ clearest chances and protecting their narrow advantage.

Key moments

• West Bromwich WFC Women had an early sight of goal but could not keep their effort on target.
• Notts County Women grew into the game and forced a save from a well-struck shot outside the box.
• The breakthrough came when Notts County capitalised on a defensive lapse and converted from inside the penalty area.
• West Bromwich WFC Women pushed forward after the goal, but a crucial block denied them an equaliser.
• Late pressure from the home side ended with a header that drifted wide as Notts County held on.

Tactical story

Notts County Women were organised and compact, looking to deny West Bromwich WFC Women space in central areas and then strike on the counter. Their midfield worked hard to close gaps, and their back line dealt well with crosses and set pieces. West Bromwich WFC Women tried to build patiently and use the flanks, but they struggled to find a way through a disciplined defensive block. As the game wore on, the home side committed more players forward, which opened up space for Notts County to relieve pressure. The visitors’ game management in the closing stages was excellent, as they slowed the tempo and kept the ball in safer areas.

Standout performers

Notts County’s goalscorer will take the headlines, but the team’s defensive unit was equally important. The goalkeeper commanded the area well, while the centre-backs made a series of timely clearances. In midfield, Notts County’s captain set the tone with disciplined positioning and intelligent passing. For West Bromwich WFC Women, there were strong individual displays despite the defeat, particularly in defence and in the wide areas. Their goalkeeper also made several saves to keep the tie within reach, but the home side lacked the final touch needed to force an equaliser.

Season impact

The 1-0 win moves Notts County Women into the next round of the English FA Women’s Cup and rewards them for a composed, professional away performance. For West Bromwich WFC Women, the result ends their cup run, but the narrow margin against a strong opponent offers encouragement for the rest of the campaign. Cup ties are often decided by fine margins, and Notts County’s ability to take their chance and protect the lead proved the difference. Both sides will now turn their attention to their respective league commitments, with Notts County buoyed by progress in the competition.