Men’s and Women’s Community Shield to Be Played as Double Header

Although we would prefer to watch football that is played in front of spectators, the lack of fans has given rise to an interesting opportunity: namely, playing both the men’s and women’s Community Shields back-to-back at Wembley on August 29th.

Today, the FA announced that the women’s Community shield—the first since 2008—will take place between Manchester City and Chelsea at 12:30 BST, 4 hours before the men kickoff.

“We are proud to announce the first ever double header of The FA’s Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 29 August,” FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said.

“It’s a sign of our commitment to the women’s game and its growth, to have a curtain raiser that mirrors that of the men, with another high-profile fixture at Wembley Stadium.”

Liverpool, of course, will be facing off against Arsenal in the men’s rendition of the traditional season opener between league and FA Cup winners. Sadly, Liverpool Women are nowhere near it after finishing dead last and being relegated last season.

The additional exposure for the women’s game, especially on such a high-profile day, can only be a good thing. It is also a good sign that they are bringing back the women’s Community Shield after a 12 year hiatus. Hopefully the exposure and TV revenue will provide a much needed boost to the league that needed to close up shop when the pandemic hit.