In a breathtaking display at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal Women overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit to defeat Real Madrid Women 3-0, securing a 3-2 aggregate victory and advancing to the Women’s Champions League semi-finals. Alessia Russo emerged as the heroine, netting twice in a 13-minute second-half surge that left the Spanish side reeling.Cadena SER
First Half: Persistent Pressure Without Reward
From the outset, Arsenal exhibited intent and dominance, pressing Real Madrid deep into their own half. Chloe Kelly was particularly influential on the right flank, delivering a series of dangerous crosses that, despite their quality, failed to find the finishing touch needed to break the deadlock. Real Madrid’s defense held firm, and the teams entered the break with the aggregate score still favoring the visitors 2-0.talkSPORT+3Sky Sports+3Sports Mole+3
Second Half: A Blitz of Goals
The Gunners emerged from the interval with renewed vigor, and their persistence paid off almost immediately.Sports Mole+1Sky Sports+1
Alessia Russo Ignites the Comeback
Just 44 seconds into the second half, Chloe Kelly delivered a precise cross that found Alessia Russo at the back post. Russo made no mistake, slotting the ball home to ignite hopes of a comeback. This goal not only energized the team but also the record 22,517 spectators in attendance. Sky SportstalkSPORT+1Sky Sports+1
Mariona Caldentey Levels the Aggregate
Merely three minutes later, Kelly was again the provider, sending in another cross that Mariona Caldentey met with a header. The ball slipped through the hands of Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2 and putting Arsenal ahead on away goals. Cadena SER+6Sports Mole+6Sky Sports+6
Russo’s Second Completes the Turnaround
The decisive moment arrived in the 59th minute. A free-kick from Katie McCabe was knocked down by Steph Catley into the path of Russo, who showcased her agility and composure by volleying the ball into the roof of the net. This goal not only secured the lead on aggregate but also underscored Russo’s clinical finishing. Sports Mole+1Sky Sports+1
Tactical Mastery and Key Performances
Under the guidance of head coach Renée Slegers, Arsenal’s tactical adjustments were pivotal. The decision to exploit the flanks through Kelly’s pace and crossing ability paid dividends, as did the move to position Steph Catley in a more central defensive role, bolstering the team’s solidity at the back. Sports Mole+2Latest news & breaking headlines+2Sky Sports+2
Chloe Kelly’s contributions were instrumental, with her deliveries leading to the first two goals. Mariona Caldentey’s midfield dynamism and Leah Williamson’s leadership in defense also played crucial roles in the team’s success.Reuters+4Sports Mole+4Sky Sports+4
Looking Ahead: A Semifinal Clash with Lyon
This remarkable comeback propels Arsenal into the semifinals, where they will face Olympique Lyonnais, the eight-time champions of the competition. The upcoming clash promises to be a stern test for the Gunners as they seek their first Women’s Champions League title since 2007. Reuters+1talkSPORT+1
Conclusion
Arsenal Women’s 3-0 victory over Real Madrid Women stands as a testament to resilience, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance. Alessia Russo’s double, complemented by Mariona Caldentey’s goal and Chloe Kelly’s assists, orchestrated a comeback that will be remembered in Women’s Champions League history. As they prepare to face Lyon, the Gunners have reignited their European ambitions with a performance that epitomizes the spirit of champions
