With two matches remaining, Birmingham City leads WSL 2 promotion contenders on goal difference ahead of Charlton Athletic. Crystal Palace and Newcastle United remain mathematically in contention for the two automatic promotion spots. The third-placed team will face a play-off against the Women's Super League's bottom club.

Birmingham, who narrowly missed promotion last season, have won three straight games to overtake Charlton. Manager Amy Merricks emphasized their WSL readiness following significant investment, including NFL legend Tom Brady becoming a minority owner and US-based Shelby Companies Limited purchasing the women's team. Birmingham travel to Charlton on the final day (2 May, 15:00 BST) in what promises to be a decisive clash.

Charlton, operating on one of WSL 2's lowest budgets, have relied on defensive solidity with the league's fewest goals conceded (17) and eight clean sheets. Manager Karen Hills called potential promotion "one of the greatest achievements" in her career. Crystal Palace, relegated from WSL in 2024, have surged under new manager Jo Potter, winning five of six matches. Meanwhile, Newcastle remains five points adrift but is building sustainably for future success under Tanya Oxtoby.