Arsenal thwarted Barcelona’s hopes of securing a third consecutive title in the UEFA Women’s Champions League with a dramatic late goal. The Spanish giants, adorned with top talent and previous champions of the tournament, were caught off guard as Arsenal executed a resilient performance to clinch victory.
The match took a thrilling turn in the 75th minute when substitute Stina Blackstenius, fresh on the pitch, scored with an impeccable shot into the corner. This goal was made possible by fellow substitute, Beth Mead, who provided the crucial assist. With this win, Arsenal secured the prestigious trophy for the second time, following their previous success in the 2006-2007 season, when the tournament was still known as the UEFA Women’s Cup.
Arsenal is still the premier English club to win this tournament, a competition often dominated by formidable European teams. Both Barcelona and Lyon, the latter having won the tournament eight times, previously held most of the honors over the last nine tournaments.
Throughout the match, Arsenal faced relentless pressure, needing to maintain composure under Barcelona’s dominant possession and numerous shots on goal, totaling 20-8. Notably, Daphne van Domselaar, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, made five essential saves to ensure her team’s triumph.
This victory also allowed Arsenal to gain some revenge for their previous Super League season in which they finished second to Chelsea. Meanwhile, Chelsea fell to Barcelona earlier in the tournament, making Arsenal’s victory particularly sweet.
