Match Progress
8 mins: Lyon advances into Arsenal's penalty area, but just before Hegerberg can take a shot, Fox executes a crucial tackle. The ball ricochets off and results in a goal kick for Arsenal.
6 mins: Arsenal maintains possession well; however, Russo is unable to find a pass through Lyon's defensive line. Another attack develops, ending with Foord shooting wide from inside the box.
4 mins: Lyon applies some pressure, but Arsenal counters through Fox. The attack ends when Smith is tackled.
2 mins: The opening moments see limited action.
Fan Perspective
Gordon emails: “For me, Lyon will take this semi final. They will not gift Arsenal three goals over the tie as they did in last year’s semi-finals. Also, Arsenal are fortunate to have McCabe playing today; she should, of course, have been sent off for a hairpull against Chelsea in the last round, and be suspended for this match. Bayern Munich player Kett was red-carded for a hairpull yesterday in the other semi, and she’s suspended from the second leg v Barcelona.”
Team News
Arsenal's bench lacks Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly, making it appear quite light.
Manager and Player Comments
Renee Slegers: “We had really good collaboration with England, she was ready for 45 mins against Iceland, she did really good and came back ready. I am really happy she is available today.
“It will never be easy in a semi-final of the Champions League. I have huge respect for Lyon. We want to embrace this moment and give it everything we have.”
Jonatan Giraldez: “We know we have to do a lot of good things.
“I love the pressure, it is the energy I need to move forward. I am very honoured to have possibilities like this.”
The return of Williamson to the heart of Arsenal's defense is a significant boost. This could inspire the team to secure their first home victory against Lyon.
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Starting Lineups
Arsenal (4-3-3): Van Domselaar; Fox, Williamson, Wubben-Moy, McCabe; Russo, Little, Caldentay; Smith, Blackstenius, Foord
Subs: Votikova, Borbe, Laia Codina, Maanum, Pelova, Hinds, Holmberg, Harwood
Lyon: Endler; Lawrence, Renard, Engen, Svava; Shrader, Heaps, Yohannes; Diani, Hegerberg, Brand
Subs: Belhadj, Bacha, Junttila Nelhage, Dumornay, Becho, Katoto, Egurrola, Fathallah, Sombath, Chawinga, Benyahia, Tarciane
Match Context
This fixture features the current holders against the competition’s most successful club, creating an exciting prospect for players and fans alike. With Arsenal chasing Manchester City in the WSL, this Champions League semi-final represents their most promising chance for silverware this season.
Lyon has already defeated Arsenal this season at Borehamwood during the league phase. However, the Emirates Stadium offers a different challenge for the French side, who lead Ligue Feminine by 14 points and remain unbeaten in all competitions this season.
Arsenal have not lost in the league since October and recently eliminated Chelsea in the Champions League quarter-finals, indicating they will not be intimidated by Lyon’s reputation. This promises to be a thrilling encounter.
