Women’s football has grown significantly in recent years in terms of visibility and demand on the pitch. However, with this growth, episodes of tension and physical contact have also become more visible, creating conversations at various matches around the world.
These are not isolated cases, but in-game actions that have escalated in intensity, and the images of pushing, pulling and confrontation that have characterized some recent matches remain.
Liga MX Femenil
One of the most memorable incidents occurred in Liga MX Femenil during Apertura 2025, during a match between FC Juárez Femenil and Club Tijuana Femenil.
During that game, Mia Zuazua and Nativida Martinez were involved in an altercation that began as an altercation over a ball near the sideline. After the initial contact, the behavior quickly escalated, leading to a shoving between the two players, a fall to the turf, and hair pulling, forcing the intervention of teammates. The situation ended with both players ejected.
UEFA Women’s Champions League
During the UEFA Women’s Champions League match between Arsenal Women and Chelsea Women, forward Alyssa Thompson caused controversy after she was pulled by her hair during an offensive attack. This action was not allowed on the field and caused a subsequent discussion as there was no intervention from the referee.
she believe cup
In another scenario, the match between the United States and Argentina during the SheBelieves Cup left a similar image. Midfielder Jadyn Shaw was sent off after a hair-pulling incident, which sparked an immediate reaction during the match and later sparked criticism of the referee.
Across teams and competitions, these episodes have begun to be repeated in different contexts of women’s soccer, and this has started a broader discussion about the intensity with which these matches are being played.
