Women's League Cup 2023/24: Manchester City Face Everton in Group Stage Clash
Manchester City confront Everton in a high-voltage Women's League Cup group stage, while Chelsea and Arsenal secure quarter-final byes. Full group analysis and schedule details.

Group Stage Draw Sets Up Thrilling Encounters
The 2023/24 Women's League Cup group stage promises fireworks as last season's finalists Manchester City prepare to battle WSL rivals Everton in Group A. The Sky Blues, who fell 2-1 to Chelsea in March's dramatic final, will also face Championship sides Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United in a challenging four-team bracket.
Champions League Impact on Tournament Structure
- Chelsea and Arsenal receive automatic quarter-final berths due to UEFA Women's Champions League participation
- Manchester United's group stage involvement hinges on European qualification results
- Potential redraw looms if United fail to reach UWCL group phase
Key Group Stage Fixtures
- September 24/25: Opening matchday across all groups
- Group A Headliner: Manchester City vs Everton (WSL derby)
- Northern Showdown: Newcastle United vs Nottingham Forest
Complete Group Breakdown | Group | Teams |
---|---|---|
A | Nottingham Forest, Everton, Manchester City, Newcastle | |
B | Sheffield Utd, Sunderland, Liverpool, Durham | |
C | Southampton, Brighton, West Ham, Charlton, Portsmouth | |
D | Crystal Palace, Leicester, Ipswich, London City Lionesses | |
E | Aston Villa, Birmingham, Tottenham, Bristol City |
Tournament Implications
- Group winners and best runners-up progress to knockout stage
- Final scheduled for March 2024 at Molineux Stadium
- Record seven-time winners Arsenal await quarter-final opponents
Manager Reactions Manchester City's Gareth Taylor stated: "Facing Everton always brings intensity. We're treating every match as preparation for multiple trophy challenges this season."
Broadcast Information All group stage matches available via BBC Sport digital platforms and FA Player streaming service.