In a stunning display of resilience and skill, Arsenal Women overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat Real Madrid 3-0 on March 26, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium, securing their place in the Women’s Champions League semi-finals. The Gunners entered the match trailing 2-0 from the first leg, but their determination shone through in the second half, where they scored three goals in just 14 minutes.
Alessia Russo was the star of the show, netting two goals and showcasing her striking prowess. The first came just after the break, in the 46th minute, when she converted a cross from her England teammate Chloe Kelly. Russo's second goal followed shortly after, in the 59th minute, when she executed a brilliant volley from around seven yards out. In between, Mariona Caldentey added to the scoreline with a well-placed header, further sealing Arsenal's comeback.
Despite a tense first half where Arsenal struggled to break through Real Madrid’s defense, the team maintained their composure and strategy. Coach Renee Slegers praised the team's effort, noting, "It’s just a credit to everyone, staff and players. We’ve worked hard to prepare for this game, but when the moment is there – because you can prepare for everything in theory – but to actually do it and execute it in this moment under pressure is so strong of the girls.”
The match was played in front of a record crowd of 22,517 fans, marking the highest attendance for a Women’s Champions League quarter-final in England. This surpasses the previous record of 21,307 set during Arsenal's match against Bayern Munich two years prior. The atmosphere was electric, with fans rallying behind the Gunners as they sought to overturn the deficit.
Arsenal’s victory is particularly significant as it marks the first time in seven years that a team has successfully overturned a 2-0 first-leg loss in the Women’s Champions League. The last team to achieve this feat was Barcelona, who managed a similar comeback against BIIK Kazygurt in the round of 32.
As the game progressed, Arsenal’s performance improved dramatically. After a goalless first half where they failed to capitalize on their dominance, the Gunners came out with renewed vigor. Russo's first goal, assisted by Kelly, came just seconds into the second half, immediately shifting the momentum in Arsenal's favor. Kelly's contributions did not stop there; she also assisted Caldentey's goal, showcasing her playmaking abilities.
Russo, who now has six goals in this season's Champions League, is tied as the tournament's top scorer. Her confidence and skill have been pivotal for Arsenal this season, especially since Slegers took charge last October. After the match, Russo expressed her belief in the team’s potential to win the tournament, saying, "I have full belief in the whole team and the staff. We will get back to work and go again.”
The semi-final will see Arsenal face Lyon, the record eight-time Champions League winners. The first leg is scheduled to take place at the Emirates on April 19 or 20, 2025. Arsenal last lifted the trophy in 2007, and the team is eager to reclaim their status as champions.
Meanwhile, Lyon advanced to the semi-finals with a commanding 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich, winning 6-1 on aggregate. Klara Buehl scored for Bayern, but Lyon responded swiftly with goals from Melchie Dumornay, Kadidiatou Diani, and Ada Hegerberg, who scored in stoppage time. Barcelona also holds a strong position in their quarter-final against Wolfsburg, leading 4-1 ahead of their second leg.
With Arsenal now gearing up for their clash against Lyon, the team is buzzing with excitement and determination. They aim to make history by securing their first Champions League title in 18 years. The stage is set for an exhilarating semi-final, and fans are hopeful that the Gunners can rise to the occasion once again.
