Alexia Putellas has opened her scoring account in England, striking in London City Lionesses’ Women’s Super League meeting with Brighton as Michele Kang’s side looked to stay within sight of Manchester City at the top of the early table.
The former Barcelona captain scored in the 29th minute, giving London City a 1-0 half-time advantage and setting her new club on course for three important points after an uneven start of two wins and one defeat.
Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie had initially repelled the danger, but the loose ball fell inside the area for Putellas. The Catalan midfielder brought it under control before driving a left-footed shot close to the post, beyond the goalkeeper’s reach.
It was Putellas’ first league goal for London City following her summer move from Barcelona, where she had spent 14 seasons. She has taken the captaincy at the London club as it begins a new chapter in the English top flight.
A Spanish presence in the London side
London City named a starting team containing five Spanish players. Alongside Putellas were goalkeeper Elene Lete, defenders Jana Fernández and Mapi León, and Lucía Corrales.
The victory mattered in the context of the developing title race. Manchester City had begun the campaign with four wins from four and 12 points, leaving London City needing a response after dropping points in their opening three rounds. Putellas supplied it with a finish that marked a notable first step in her English league career.
