Defending champions Arsenal rebounded from their loss to Lyon in their opening match with a 2-0 win over Benfica in the Women’s Champions League.
For much of the match, back in Lisbon—where they clinched the Champions League title last May—Arsenal found it difficult to penetrate a resolute Benfica defense. However, after ending a four-match winless streak with a win over Brighton in the Women’s Super League, the Gunners stayed persistent. Their efforts were rewarded in the second half with goals from Beth Mead and Alessia Russo, marking their first points in this season’s tournament.
Gunners Begin European Campaign
Renee Slegers’ team, who triumphed over Barcelona in last season’s final at Estadio Jose Alvalade, started positively. Mead struck an early free-kick over the crossbar from 25 yards out, while Lotte Wubben-Moy missed with a header from a corner.
Benfica, who were defeated by Juventus in their first Champions League game, almost took the lead three minutes before half-time. A corner was delivered into a packed Arsenal penalty area, and Diana Gomes directed a powerful header towards the bottom corner, but Daphne van Domselaar made a spectacular save.
Arsenal Breakthrough
After a subdued first half, Arsenal finally scored in the 57th minute. Benfica were caught in possession while trying to play out from the back, allowing Russo to assist Mariona Caldentey in the penalty area. Caldentey’s pass intended for Mead was deflected off defender Beatriz Cameirao, allowing Mead to slot the ball into the net past goalkeeper Lena Pauels.
As Benfica sought to equalize, Van Domselaar had to race out of her area to intercept a long ball aimed at Diana Silva. Arsenal secured their victory with just a minute remaining when Kelly sent in a low free-kick from the left, allowing Russo to sneak ahead of the defenders and score.
Mead Takes Ownership
Arsenal’s Beth Mead addressed the goal controversy regarding whether it was hers or an own goal: “It’s quite clear. I trip over her and then flick it towards the goal. I haven’t seen the replay but I’m definitely taking credit for it.”
Coach Praises Patience
Arsenal manager Renee Slegers expressed that the hard-earned victory made for a “nice Champions League night.” She noted: “The atmosphere, stadium, and pitch were excellent. We had to be patient and work on crucial details to come out on top. I’m pleased with how we managed the game.” Slegers highlighted the importance of their early second-half goal and the positive impact of substitutions during the match.
Aiming Higher
Beth Mead remarked on the challenge of facing physical teams like Benfica: “It was tough. We needed to focus on our style of play. We aim to be even better this season than last, especially since we have a good momentum going.” She hopes the team can recharge during international breaks to enhance their performance.
Commitment to Improve
Midfielder Mariona Caldentey emphasized the need for defensive consistency and more scoring chances: “We know every team aims to beat us, and we haven’t always performed at our best. Today’s game in Benfica was a good start, but we must keep striving to improve in all aspects of our game.” She emphasized that composure is key as they navigate their challenges.
