Birmingham City and Crystal Palace secured automatic promotion to the Women's Super League after a dramatic final round in WSL 2. Wilma Leidhammar's brace gave Birmingham a 2-1 win over Charlton at The Valley, while Palace thrashed Portsmouth 6-1. Both clubs will join the top flight when the league expands to 14 sides for 2026‑27.

Charlton entered the day atop the table, a point clear of Birmingham, but a late goal from Leidhammar turned the tide. Palace, already relegated Portsmouth, fell behind early but responded with four quick goals, sealing a top‑two finish on goal difference. Manager Amy Merricks praised her side's resilience, calling the achievement "amazing" after a four‑year absence.

The loss leaves Charlton with a single chance to regain promotion in a play‑off against Leicester on 23 May. Birmingham return as WSL champions, while Palace bounce back after a one‑season spell in the second tier. Both promotions reshape the upcoming top‑flight landscape, confirming the league's planned expansion.