Tottenham Hotspur Women offered a much-needed source of excitement and optimism for fans last season, delivering their highest-ever points total in the Women's Super League (WSL). This impressive performance provided a stark contrast to the men's team, who endured a difficult campaign, narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League. For many supporters, the women's team has become the most enjoyable aspect of following Spurs.
Last season's highlights for Tottenham Women included a dominant 7-2 victory over Aston Villa, a thrilling FA Cup penalty shootout win against London City Lionesses where 17 consecutive penalties were scored, and a series of spectacular goals, including a 40-yard strike from Cathinka Tandberg. The team's exciting, organised, and attacking style of play under head coach Martin Ho has been widely praised, fostering a strong connection with the fanbase.
The appointment of Martin Ho as head coach last year is widely seen as a pivotal factor in the team's transformation. Ho, who previously served as an assistant at Manchester United and head coach of Norwegian side Brann, has instilled a clear tactical identity and empowered players to understand their roles. His efforts to engage with supporters, including pre-match chats in the 'Legends Lounge' at Leyton Orient (where most women's home games are played), have further endeared him to the fanbase.
Player recruitment also played a crucial role in Spurs Women's improved fortunes. Midfielder Olivia Holdt emerged as the team's top scorer last season, while Toko Koga proved a consistent presence in central defence. The squad was further bolstered in January with the arrival of Signe Gaupset, known for her dynamic runs through midfield. This strategic strengthening, combined with Ho's ability to revitalise existing players, saw the team win five of their first six games, a significant turnaround from the previous season where they finished just one place above relegation.
Despite being comprehensively beaten in a couple of matches by eventual champions Manchester City, who boast prolific striker Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw, Tottenham Women finished fifth in the WSL, behind the established powerhouses of City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United. The club has already moved to strengthen for the upcoming season, signing highly-rated Netherlands international defender Caitlin Dijkstra from Wolfsburg and Germany's clinical striker Shekiera Martinez from West Ham. These acquisitions signal a clear ambition to challenge for a top-four spot in the WSL in the near future.