After a fierce final in Lisbon that saw Arsenal upset Barcelona 1-0, they have won the Women’s Champions League for the second time in their history.
After a superb assist from England’s Beth Mead, substitute Stina Blackstenius scored in the 75th minute to give the Gunners the coveted championship.
Defending champions Barcelona controlled the game in terms of possession and shots on target, setting up multiple scoring opportunities but falling short.
The game was controlled by the Catalan giants, but Arsenal’s defense stayed firm and took advantage of their few openings.
The first half of the game was quite dramatic, with Arsenal nearly grabbing the lead in the twenty-first minute. Barcelona’s Irene Paredes turned a British winger Chloe Kelly’s cross into her own net. But after a VAR review, the goal was declared offside because Kelly had gone a little too early.
The manager of Arsenal, Renee Slegers, emphasized before the game that her squad, which is sometimes viewed as the underdog, was committed to “show bravery” in the championship game. This way of thinking worked wonders as they took use of their few opportunities and repelled Barcelona’s pressure.
Barcelona had won three of the previous four Women’s Champions League titles, making them the overwhelming favorites going into the game. Arsenal won the trophy because they couldn’t muster a fourth victory, despite their recent dominance.
Arsenal is the only side from England to win the coveted Women’s Champions League twice, and this success is their first since their 2006–07 championship.
