Arsenal’s exuberant celebrations in Lyon marked the end of an 18-year wait, as the Gunners produced a remarkable comeback to beat eight-time winners Lyon 4-1 and reach the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
Trailing 2-1 from the first leg and facing one of Europe’s most decorated sides, Arsenal delivered a stunning performance at the Groupama Stadium.
An early own goal from Lyon set the tone before Mariona Caldentey’s sublime strike and further goals from Alessia Russo and Caitlin Foord sealed a deserved victory.
It capped an extraordinary turnaround for Arsenal, who earlier in the season seemed unlikely to reach these heights after inconsistent results and a midseason managerial change.
“We were unbelievable in a high-pressure moment against a top opponent,” said manager Renee Slegers, who took over permanently just four months ago.
“It’s euphoria, such a special moment. We celebrate this, but stay humble for the final.”
Arsenal Rattle Lyon in Historic Semi-Final
From the very start, Arsenal pressed Lyon relentlessly, and the early own goal rattled the hosts.
Lyon manager Joe Montemurro described his team’s display as “perplexing” and “inexplicable”, but Arsenal’s tactical execution and composure under pressure were critical.
Kim Little, turning 35 in June, put in a vintage performance alongside Caldentey in midfield, dictating play and showing calmness in key moments.
With just six shots on target, Arsenal clinically finished four, urged on by their 500 travelling fans.
Renee Slegers’ Rise: From Academy Graduate to History Maker
The last time Arsenal reached a Champions League final, Slegers was a teenager in the club’s academy. Now, at 36, she becomes only the second Arsenal boss to lead the women’s team into a European final.
Slegers has overseen a dramatic turnaround, transforming a season that once looked lost.
Under her leadership, Alessia Russo has become the team’s top scorer with 19 goals, while January signing Chloe Kelly, rejuvenated after a tough spell at Manchester City, has become a key attacking weapon.
Barcelona Await in the Final
Arsenal now face the ultimate challenge: holders Barcelona, who have featured in five of the last six Champions League finals, winning three. It will be a demanding test requiring another flawless performance.
However, Arsenal can draw confidence from Caldentey’s experience.
The Spanish midfielder, who joined from Barcelona last summer, has lifted the trophy three times and has scored eight goals in her past 11 Champions League games for the Gunners.
For Arsenal, after 18 years of waiting, the dream of European glory is once again within reach.
