Chelsea came into the game with a formidable record over United, winning 100% of their cup final meetings and only dropping points in two of their past 12 league games.
But injuries in the squad and absences because of the Asian Cup meant this was a depleted Chelsea, albeit United were also without key midfielders Hinata Miyazawa and Ella Toone.
There was a feeling this was United’s best chance to overcome Chelsea, when their opponents were vulnerable and the ‘mentality monsters’ mask appeared to have slipped ever so slightly.
However, Chelsea’s biggest superpower has been their ability to block out the noise, to bounce back when they have been written off, and ultimately, to win prizes.
After 90 minutes, it was the familiar sight of Chelsea lifting the cup, Blues fans celebrating in the stands and Lucy Bronze playing with gold confetti.
Bronze, who won her 24th club trophy, helped Bompastor walk her children on to the pitch on Mother’s Day to celebrate, and the full-back tapped the tip of the trophy when she received her medal, itching to get her hands on it properly.
Chelsea players stood in a team huddle, with Bompastor in the centre delivering a message, while United captain Maya Le Tissier and manager Marc Skinner were in frustrated conversation in the centre circle for some time.
United had come unstuck once again – but this was business as usual for Chelsea.
“There’s been a lot of noise and that’s because of what Chelsea have done, winning 18 trophies over a period of time,” former England midfielder Fara Williams said on BBC One.
“Everybody expects, and is so used to, Chelsea winning. When they have a blip, eyebrows are raised and questions are asked.
“I really think they proved themselves today.”
Only three teams have lifted the Women’s League Cup trophy since its introduction in 2011 – Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City.
Chelsea swept every domestic trophy in 2024-25, going unbeaten in the process, during Bompastor’s first season in charge.
It is unlikely they will win this trophy again soon with changes coming into place next season, meaning teams competing in the Women’s Champions League – which Chelsea hope to be doing – not involved in this competition.
It was important therefore to win, not only to defend their title, not only to block out the noise, but to enjoy it one more time.
“I told the players before the game that when you have the opportunity to play a final, it’s always a special occasion,” said Bompastor.
“For us to achieve that one more time is great. It’s a special day also in my private life with it being Mother’s Day and having my kids around me.
“They are my biggest support so to give them the opportunity to celebrate is nice and it feels great.”
