Arsenal claims UEFA Women’s Champions League title, thwarting Barcelona’s chance for a historic three-peat.
In an electrifying showdown, Arsenal stunned the reigning champions Barcelona with a narrow 1-0 victory to secure their second UEFA Women’s Champions League title.
Stina Blackstenius delivered the decisive goal in the 75th minute, assisted by fellow substitute Beth Mead, during the final hosted at the Estadio José Alvalade in Lisbon on Saturday.
This triumph marks 18 years since Arsenal first achieved this honor, still the only English team to hold the prestigious title in women’s football.
Following the final whistle, Arsenal players joyfully embraced, rushing to celebrate with their fans, primarily clad in red and white, amidst a sea of Barcelona’s burgundy and blue.
“We believed from the start of our Champions League journey,” Arsenal forward Alessia Russo remarked to TNT Sports. “We always knew we had the potential. It was just about taking action, and today we did!”
Barcelona came into the match as heavy favorites, hoping to secure their fourth title in five years and join Lyon as the only teams to win three consecutive titles. With stars like Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas leading the way, they had demonstrated dominance, dispatching opponents such as Wolfsburg and Chelsea in the knockout rounds.
However, Arsenal’s robust defensive strategy and more effective attacking play turned the match in their favor. Despite two remarkable saves from Barcelona’s goalkeeper Cata Coll that denied Frida Maanum and Blackstenius, it was Blackstenius who finally broke the deadlock.
This victory is a triumphant conclusion to a tumultuous season for Arsenal, which saw a coaching change with Jonas Eidevall resigning and assistant Renee Seglers stepping in. Under Seglers, the team flourished, overcoming Real Madrid and the eight-time champions Lyon en route to the final.
The defeat was a significant letdown for the many Barcelona fans present at the home ground of Sporting Lisbon. Despite their hopeful chants of “Yes we can!” in the closing moments, they couldn’t spark a comeback.
Barcelona’s best chance came when Claudia Pina struck the crossbar just after halftime, showcasing their best period of play. Nevertheless, Arsenal maintained control throughout much of the match.
“We apologize to all our supporters who have traveled to cheer us on,” Bonmati stated to Catalunya Radio before the awards ceremony. “We’ll strive to achieve this again.”
Arsenal overcame early nerves, pressuring Barcelona effectively and disrupting their possession play. The Gunners exploited spaces down the left flank, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Russo was instrumental, using her physicality to maintain momentum and keep the offensive alive for Arsenal. In the 22nd minute, Arsenal thought they had scored first, but a video review nullified an own goal by Irene Paredes due to an offside call on Frida Maanum. Moments later, Maanum’s long-range attempt was expertly saved by Coll.
Barcelona’s Bonmati was notable in the first half, creating threats with her dribbling. However, Arsenal’s Leah Williamson made pivotal blocks to guard against her advances.
After halftime, Barcelona switched gears, with Pina striking the woodwork shortly after the restart. Despite their initial resurgence, Arsenal’s Blackstenius would not be denied again, ultimately sealing the match for her team.