As Arsenal prepares for a critical UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Lyon, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Trailing 2-1 from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners face the daunting task of overcoming the eight-time European champions on their home turf in France. The match kicks off at 5 PM on Sunday, April 27, 2025, and Arsenal is determined to turn the tide in their favor.
In the first leg, Lyon struck early with a goal from Kadidiatou Diani, putting Arsenal on the back foot. However, the Gunners managed to level the score with a penalty converted by Mariona Caldentey late in the second half. Just when it seemed Arsenal could secure a draw, Melchie Dumornay scored the decisive goal for Lyon eight minutes from time, leaving Arsenal with a one-goal deficit to overturn.
Despite the uphill battle, Arsenal full-back Katie McCabe remains optimistic about her team’s chances. "I believe on Sunday we can go in and be positive and score goals," McCabe stated during the pre-match press conference. "We have the quality, we have the class around the team, but we have to be on it; we have to be on it from the get-go." Her confidence is echoed by the team's recent performances, which have shown they can rise to the occasion.
Arsenal’s last appearance in the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-finals came two years ago, in 2023, where they suffered a heart-wrenching 5-4 aggregate defeat to VfL Wolfsburg. McCabe reflected on that experience, noting, "This [game] is right up there, for sure. I think it’s been nearly two years since we were in this position with the club last time around against Wolfsburg. We’re away from home in the second leg, so it’s going to be a different challenge for us."
Historically, Lyon has been a formidable opponent, particularly at home. Their last home defeat came over a year ago when they were bested on penalties by Fleury in the semi-finals of the Coupe de France. Furthermore, their last loss in regular time at home was over two years ago, when Chelsea defeated them 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie. This record underscores the challenge Arsenal faces as they aim to secure a place in the final for the first time since their triumph in 2007.
However, Arsenal has reasons to believe they can achieve this feat. In the first leg against Lyon, they created numerous chances but failed to convert them into goals. The Gunners demonstrated their resilience in the previous round, overturning a 2-0 deficit against Real Madrid with a stunning 3-0 victory at home. With key players like Alessia Russo and Chloe Kelly expected to be fitter and sharper this time around, Arsenal’s attacking threat could be significantly enhanced.
McCabe emphasized the importance of the team’s depth and unity heading into this crucial match. "We have the availability in our squad and the depth and the strengths that we have around the team are fantastic," she said. This depth could prove crucial as Arsenal looks to navigate the pressures of playing against a well-established Lyon side.
Moreover, the support from Arsenal's fans could provide an additional boost. McCabe praised the traveling supporters, stating, "They’re so loud. I’m biased, but I think our fans are the best in the league, the best in Europe. Wherever we go, whether it’s in Europe or up north in England, they’re always there in numbers and cheering us on, singing the chants." The connection between the team and its supporters is one that McCabe believes will be vital in urging the players on during the match.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, Arsenal is fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead. They must harness their belief, capitalize on their chances, and remain resolute in their pursuit of a place in the final. The atmosphere in Lyon is expected to be electric, with a record number of away supporters backing the Gunners.
With the match just hours away, all eyes will be on Arsenal as they seek to overturn the deficit and make history by reaching the final of the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The players and coaching staff are focused, united, and ready to fight for every inch on the pitch. Will the Gunners rise to the occasion and secure a memorable victory?
