In a thrilling first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final, Olympique Lyonnais edged past Arsenal with a 2-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, April 19, 2025. The eight-time champions showcased their attacking prowess and defensive resilience, setting the stage for a tense return leg next week.
Lyon, aiming for a record twelfth final in this prestigious tournament, took an early lead in the 17th minute thanks to Kadidiatou Diani. The French striker, who has been in sensational form, raced down the right flank and fired a cross-shot that initially appeared to be ruled offside. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was awarded as Diani was deemed onside, marking her 27th goal in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and her 15th for Lyon in just two seasons.
Despite Lyon’s early advantage, Arsenal responded with determination. The Gunners, who have only progressed to the final once in their previous seven semi-final appearances, had their best chance of the first half when Frida Maanum glanced a header wide from close range. Arsenal's Leah Williamson also came close, hitting the crossbar with a header just before halftime.
The second half saw Arsenal increase their pressure, and their efforts finally paid off in the 78th minute when Mariona Caldentey converted a penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after VAR confirmed that Lyon goalkeeper Christiane Endler had fouled Williamson in the box. The home crowd erupted with joy as Caldentey sent Endler the wrong way to equalize.
However, Lyon quickly responded, regaining the lead just four minutes later. Melchie Dumornay, who was described by Lyon midfielder Lindsey Heaps as one of the best players in the world, showcased her speed and skill, powering past the Arsenal defense to score the winning goal in the 82nd minute. The strike silenced the 40,000 fans present, leaving Arsenal with a significant challenge ahead of the return leg in Lyon on April 27.
Lyon's coach, Joe Montemurro, who previously managed Arsenal, expressed pride in his team's performance, noting their ability to withstand Arsenal's attacks. "We grew into the game, we knew it was going to be a hard challenge. Lyon are a hard team to beat and they have a lot of quality," said Arsenal's coach Renee Slegers. "We created chances and got numbers in the box, we just couldn't get the ball in the net. We are not going to change those things in a week. I trust the team that we can score those goals from those opportunities."
As the match progressed, Lyon continued to threaten on the counter-attack, with Dumornay nearly doubling their lead earlier in the first half with a spectacular shot from nearly 40 meters that struck the crossbar. The visitors' defense held firm under Arsenal's mounting pressure, demonstrating their experience and tactical discipline.
Looking ahead, the return leg promises to be a thrilling encounter. Arsenal will need to replicate their impressive 5-1 victory over Lyon in the group stage back in September 2022 if they hope to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the final. With both teams having reached the last four of their respective Champions League competitions this season, the stakes couldn't be higher.
The match showcased the growing competitiveness of women's football, with both teams displaying high-quality play and tactical acumen. As Lyon prepares for the second leg, they will be eager to maintain their unbeaten record at this stage of the tournament since 2009, while Arsenal will be determined to capitalize on their home advantage and make a historic comeback.
In conclusion, the first leg of this semi-final has set the stage for an exciting return fixture. With Lyon leading 2-1, the Gunners face an uphill battle, but with their attacking talent and determination, they remain capable of pulling off a remarkable turnaround. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this gripping contest.
