Arsenal delivered a stunning comeback to secure their place in the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-finals, overturning a first-leg deficit with a dominant 3-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.
Russo’s Brace Inspires Arsenal’s Fightback
The Gunners started the second half with relentless intensity, and Alessia Russo played a pivotal role in their comeback. Within one minute of the restart, the England international calmed nerves in the stands, meeting Chloe Kelly’s curling cross with a composed finish to put Arsenal ahead on the night.
Moments later, former Barcelona star Mariona Caldentey extended the lead, heading in another pinpoint cross from Kelly to complete a quickfire double in just three minutes.
Russo then sealed Arsenal’s triumph in the 59th minute, converting a close-range effort to grab her second of the night. She nearly completed a hat-trick, but VAR ruled out two goals for offside. She also missed a golden chance in a one-on-one with Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez.
Arsenal’s Defensive Resilience Denies Madrid
Despite their dominance, Arsenal had to withstand some pressure from Real Madrid, particularly at the end of each half. Just before half-time, Daphne van Domselaar made a crucial save to deny Filippa Angeldahl, before blocking a rebound effort from Linda Caicedo, who was offside.
Caicedo came close again in added time, but van Domselaar once again produced a key stop. At the other end, Caitlin Foord had an opportunity to add to Arsenal’s tally but sent her effort wide under pressure from Madrid’s defense.
A Season-Defining Win for the Gunners
This
statement victory is the biggest yet under manager Renee Slegers, keeping Arsenal in contention for European glory despite their early Women's FA Cup exit and eight-point gap behind WSL leaders Chelsea.
Semi-Final Showdown Against Lyon
Arsenal now set their sights on a semi-final clash against Lyon, the record eight-time Women's Champions League winners, who advanced with a dominant 6-1 aggregate win over Bayern Munich.
With momentum on their side, can the Gunners go all the way and claim their first Women’s Champions League title since 2007?
