Anita Asante Discusses the FA Women’s National League Cup Final: What it Takes to Win and the Future of Women’s Football

Ahead of the highly anticipated FA Women's National League Cup Final between Nottingham Forest and Stoke City, former Arsenal player and current England youth coach Anita Asante shared her insights on what it takes for teams to reach the final, the significance of the match, and the growing importance of the competition in the development of women's football.

With both teams having enjoyed impressive seasons, Asante discussed the pressure on Nottingham Forest, the role of the fans, and the significance of playing at established stadiums, while also highlighting how the visibility of the women's game continues to rise through platforms like BBC iPlayer.

A Journey to the Final: The Importance of Dedication

Asante reflected on her own experiences lifting the League Cup with Arsenal in 2005 and 2007. For her, the journey to these victories was as significant as the trophies themselves. “As players and staff, you go on this journey across the season, and you have these goals. When you meet them, that’s the best feeling you can imagine,” she said.

This resonates strongly with the teams competing in this year’s final. Nottingham Forest and Stoke City both had long, hard-fought seasons to get to this point. According to Asante, their accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and resilience required to reach a final, especially in a league where clubs are not just vying for cup success, but promotion as well.

“For these players, it’s a huge achievement because they’re balancing their ambition for promotion alongside competing in domestic competitions,” she explained. “It’s credit to them and their hard work, but no season is ever straightforward. There are always bumps in the road, and to reach a final after managing all those ups and downs shows incredible character.”

The Final: What to Expect

With both teams having had standout seasons, the final is expected to be a thrilling contest. Nottingham Forest, currently top of the table and unbeaten in the league, enters the match as the favourites. Asante acknowledges the added pressure on the team: “Arguably, a lot of pressure is on Nottingham Forest because they’ve been on this unbeaten run. They’re in a final now and will want to bring silverware home.”

However, Asante sees Stoke City’s role as the underdog as potentially giving them an edge. “Stoke can come in with a little less pressure. They can embrace the underdog status and go out there with freedom, trying to ruffle some feathers,” she said.

She expects a fiercely competitive game, especially considering how tightly contested the league has been. “The competition at this level continues to improve,” Asante noted. “This final will be an opportunity to showcase some incredible talent from the National League.”

The Significance of High-Profile Venues

One of the standout features of the FA Women’s National League Cup Final is that it will be held at Walsall’s Bescot Stadium, providing a high-profile venue for teams from the lower tiers of the women’s pyramid. Asante emphasised how important it is for clubs from all levels to experience playing at established stadiums with better facilities.

“It’s extremely important that all teams across the pyramid get opportunities to play in bigger stadiums with better facilities, because they deserve it,” she stated. “It shows the value of the women’s game and creates an extra buzz around the competition. It’s not just a cup final; it’s a landmark moment that reflects how far women’s football has come.”

For the players, it’s an opportunity to play on a stage that they wouldn’t necessarily experience in other competitions. Asante believes it not only motivates the players but also helps fans connect with the teams in a deeper way. “It creates excitement for the fans and better experiences for everyone involved,” she explained.

Fans and Their Role in Growing Women’s Football

Asante, who has played in front of passionate fans during her career at clubs like Aston Villa, understands the significant role that supporters play in pushing women’s football forward. “Without fans, there is no game,” she said. “Fans give players an extra push, an extra incentive. The West Midlands, in particular, has an extremely passionate football community, and their support has a huge impact on the growth of women’s football in the region.”

Photo credit: @aimeereynoldsmedia

She also stressed the importance of visibility for the women’s game, especially with the final being streamed live on BBC iPlayer. This broadens the audience, reaching viewers across the UK. “It’s incredibly important that we keep pushing for more visibility for the women’s game,” Asante said. “Broadcasting the final on such a large platform is great for the players, the clubs, and the wider sport. It gives young girls who may aspire to play football a chance to see their local teams in action.”

The Road Ahead: Building for the Future

As the women’s game continues to evolve, Asante believes that the FA Women’s National League plays a crucial role in developing the next generation of talent. She highlighted the importance of grassroots programmes and development pathways in nurturing players.

“Every one of us, including myself throughout my career, was a grassroots player at one point. So the importance of these leagues can’t be understated,” she said. “It’s vital that we keep strengthening the infrastructure and pathways, providing opportunities for players at all levels to reach their potential.”

For clubs like Nottingham Forest, the final could serve as a springboard for greater success. Asante sees a League Cup victory as an important step in increasing the club’s ambition and further investment into the team. “A win could be a massive catalyst for them, boosting ambition and support from the community,” she explained. “It would also show the competitive nature of the game and encourage further development of clubs at all levels of the pyramid.”

Final Words of Encouragement

As the final approaches, Asante’s advice to the players is simple: “Have fun, enjoy it, embrace the moment.” She acknowledges that the pressure of a final can be overwhelming, but reminds the players that they’ve earned their place. “Everything they’ve done to get to this point is the reason they’re there,” she said. “So, just maintain that level of consistency and stick together.”

The FA Women’s National League Cup Final represents more than just a competition - it’s an opportunity for players to showcase their talent on a national stage, inspire the next generation, and continue the growth of women’s football across the UK.

Tickets are still available to purchase for next weekend's cup final here, with prices starting from as little as £5.