crowned

Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

For 18 lengthy years Arsenal had waited for this second. They weren’t supposed . They weren’t purported to win in 2025. However for the second time of their historical past they’re European champions.

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It was a efficiency for the ages, one which maybe solely the gamers carrying Arsenal shirts noticed coming. Barcelona, three-time Champions League winners, have been the overwhelming favourites to come back out on high for a 3rd successive season.

They’d within the semi-final and gained the Spanish league at a canter as soon as once more. They appeared unstoppable.

Arsenal have been the underdogs after they confronted Swedish aspect Umea over two legs within the 2007 remaining. It was Alex Scott, an unlikely scorer, who fired residence the decisive aim that made them European champions. Eighteen years later it’s Stina Blackstenius who has written herself into the historical past books.

Within the 67th minute she and Beth Mead got here off the bench. Seven minutes later, the 2 had mixed, with Mead establishing Blackstenius for the one aim of the sport.

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Whereas Blackstenius was the match-winner, each Arsenal participant performed their half. It took a monumental defensive efficiency to maintain Barcelona at bay.

Arsenal acquired within the heads of their opponents. Chloe Kelly rattled Barcelona’s gamers with niggly fouls. Leah Williamson was a rock on the again and Kim Little coated each blade of grass.

However what concerning the supervisor, Renee Slegers? Eight months in the past she was assistant to Jonas Eidevall. When he was sacked in October, Slegers was appointed as interim head coach however was reluctant to take the job completely. Fortunately for Arsenal, she modified her thoughts. She is simply 36 years outdated however delivered a tactical masterclass.

“We knew that decision-making was going to be key, for the gamers on the pitch and us as employees,” Slegers mentioned.

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“The entire employees has ready every part so effectively with a lot element and we knew within the second we needed to make the choice from the sideline. What to do, what to not do, what to vary and what to not change.”

There had been a lot discuss concerning the previous within the build-up to this recreation. Former gamers had spoken about how the soccer gods have been on their aspect in 2007. Each bounce of the ball, each little element went their approach. Arsenal rode their luck at instances however that’s what you want in a remaining.

A number of members of the 2007 staff have been within the stands on the José Alvalade stadium, whereas Kelly Smith is now a part of the teaching employees.

Kelly Smith alongside Ian Wright after the sport – Getty Photos/David Worth

Arsenal needed to struggle to get this far. Their journey to the Champions League remaining began in September after they performed Rangers within the first spherical of qualifying.

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Actually, there have been a number of moments all through their marketing campaign the place they appeared destined to be knocked out within the earlier phases. After they have been thrashed 5-2 by Bayern Munich of their first group recreation, after they misplaced 2-0 within the first leg of their quarter-final with Actual Madrid, after they have been crushed 2-1 by Lyon at residence within the first half of their semi-final tie. Every time, Arsenal .

“There are such a lot of issues which have occurred this season and so many arduous instances,” Slegers mentioned. “We now have at all times fought again and the assumption was rising each single day within the season.”

Barcelona, who have been taking part in of their fifth straight remaining, have been at all times anticipated to dominate possession so it was no shock to see them have extra of the ball within the opening phases. However Arsenal greater than held their very own. They have been in dreamland when Irene Paredes turned Frida Maanum’s cross into her personal web. However replays confirmed Maanum was marginally offside within the build-up and the aim was dominated out by VAR.

Arsenal thought they’d taken the lead by means of Irene Paredes’ personal aim – Getty Photos/Patricia De Melo

Whereas Arsenal created possibilities, in addition they rode their luck at instances. However that’s what you want in a remaining. Given the final English staff, Chelsea, to play Barcelona in a Champions League remaining conceded after 33 seconds, Arsenal would undoubtedly have taken a rating of 0-0 at half-time earlier than kick-off.

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Barcelona appeared as if they’d been given a ticking off in the course of the break and so they spent the early phases of the second half camped in Arsenal’s half.

A Barcelona aim appeared sure when Fridolina Rolfo picked out Ewa Pajor within the field however Steph Catley made a incredible last-ditch deal with to get in the way in which.

Arsenal’s Steph Catley produced one in all a number of commanding defensive performances – AP/Jose Breton

After wave after wave of Barcelona assaults, the introduction of Blackstenius modified the sport. Lastly, Arsenal had an out ball and somebody to run in behind. The Swedish ahead first went shut when she robbed Mapi León of possession earlier than firing straight at Cata Coll. That was the primary warning signal, however Barcelona didn’t take heed. The transfer began with an Arsenal nook, which was partially cleared however stored alive by Mariona Caldentey. The ball was labored to Mead and he or she performed a stunning cross in behind Barcelona’s defence to Blackstenius, who completed into the underside left nook.

Arsenal’s Stina Blackstenius wrote her title into the historical past books with the profitable aim – Reuters/Violeta Santos Moura

Blackstenius isn’t a daily starter on this staff as a result of she has a behavior of not being medical. Barcelona’s defenders seemed to be ready for the offside flag to go up, however this time it didn’t come.

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Even Blackstenius appeared shocked she had scored. Arsenal weren’t dreaming. There have been 16 minutes left when the aim went in. Then there was seven minutes of added time. Identical to in 2007, Arsenal didn’t falter.

Match particulars

Arsenal (4-3-3): Van Domselaar 8, Fox 8, Williamson 9, Catley 8, McCabe 8, Little 8, Mariona 8, Maanum 8 (Blackstenius 67), Kelly 8 (Mead 68, 8), Russo 8 (Wubben-Moy 90+2), Foord 8 (Hurtig 86)

Subs not used: Zinsberger, Codina, Walti, Pelova, Nighswonger, Ilestedt, Cooney-Cross, Williams

Booked: Kelly

Targets: Blackstenius 74

Barcelona (4-3-3): Coll 6, Batlle 6, Paredes 5, Leon 5 (Engen 79), Rolfo 5 (Brugts 79), Bonmati 6, Patri 6, Putellas 6, Graham Hansen 5, Pajor 5, Pina 6 (Paralluelo 62, 6)

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Subs not used: Font, Fernandez, Torrejon, Lopez, Roebuck, Cano, Schertenleib, Diaz, Pujols

Booked: Paralluelo

Referee: Ivana Martincic

07:48 PM BSTRenee Slegers speaking

We knew it was going to be a recreation the place momentum shifts as a result of we respect Barcelona, who they’re, and the way good they’re on the ball. However we additionally understand how good we’re. We knew momentum was going to shift. Perhaps different individuals have been considering one thing else however that’s what we believed.

We spoke about getting by means of the primary 10-20 minutes and managing the sport as a result of they usually come out quick. They got here right here assured and with all respect, we needed to handle that section of the sport. In all of the phases that occurred we confirmed the mentality, the resilience, the effectiveness in all our actions and the assumption was unbelievable.

07:46 PM BSTArsenal coach Kelly Smith on her nerves on the finish

They have been terrible. I couldn’t play within the remaining in 2007 as a result of I used to be suspended and I felt the identical approach immediately as I did again then. Sweaty palms, dry mouth, however this staff is superb. Extra to come back from them subsequent 12 months.

07:44 PM BSTQuite the week within the Williamson household

Leah Williamson’s dad is a Tottenham fan and apparently made a take care of her that he would put on an Arsenal shirt in the event that they acquired to the ultimate – it’s the primary time he has ever worn one. Good week for him with Spurs males’s Europa League win on Wednesday night time.

07:36 PM BSTKatie McCabe talking post-match

I’m simply in disbelief to be sincere. No truly I do imagine as a result of Barcelona threw every part at us immediately and we stored collectively, rode it out, rode out the storm. Then our recreation changers got here on and made certain we acquired runs in behind and Stina acquired the aim ultimately. Unbelievable.

To have the ability to give this to our followers, household, the gamers which have been right here for thus lengthy, it’s an unbelievable day for the membership.

The phrase underdogs acquired thrown round in the course of the week however we deserved to be on this remaining. We have been in it from the beginning having to qualify for the match. We had some troublesome ends in the group stage however we bounced again.

07:36 PM BSTIan Wright celebrating the winner07:29 PM BSTThe Angel performs in Lisbon07:27 PM BSTLeah Williamson talking

“I don’t imagine it, I’m going to f—–g cry and I don’t cry,” Williamson mentioned to TNT Sports activities.

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“This staff, there’s numerous this staff which have been collectively for a very very long time and dealing actually actually arduous to get to the following stage and to have the ability to do it on the largest day.

“I feel some individuals had the sport of their lives and that’s what it is advisable have. I’m simply so completely happy.”

“We modified the gameplan just a little bit within the week as a result of we needed to really feel extra comfy and that paid off, however I feel within the first half we had possibilities and I don’t assume individuals believed how good they have been so we have been losing them and we mentioned ‘second half we simply want one likelihood’ and he or she took it, Stina [Blackstenius] took it.”

Arsenal’s Kim Little and Leah Williamson raise the trophy – Reuters/Rodrigo Antunes

07:18 PM BSTThe trophy raise

Kim Little and Leah Williamson raise the trophy collectively, and Arsenal are champions of Europe.

07:18 PM BSTArsenal’s celebrations

Gamers of Arsenal have a good time victory at full-time

Arsenal’s gamers have a good time – Getty Photos/Patricia De Melo Moreira

Arsenal gamers have a good time victory after the ultimate whistle – PA/Zed Jameson

07:14 PM BSTArsenal to have a good time on the Emirates on Monday

Arsenal will maintain a celebration in Armoury Sq., exterior Emirates Stadium, on Monday Could 26. The general public celebration will run from 11.30am to 12.15pm.

07:14 PM BSTMore from Russo

It feels surreal. We did what we knew we might. I believed because the second our Champions League journey began we had the potential. We knew we could possibly be ok, it was nearly going and doing it.

07:08 PM BSTCongratulations from the Prime Minister07:05 PM BSTThe scenes at full time07:05 PM BSTAlessia Russo talking after the sport

We labored so arduous, and it simply feels superb. We needed to undergo lots, they’re a high aspect. We knew we must undergo and there can be moments after we didn’t have the ball, and we needed to be content material not having the ball figuring out our time would come. Beth [Mead] and Stina have been our game-changers.

07:00 PM BSTScenes on the Emirates when Arsenal scored06:57 PM BSTFull time! Arsenal have gained the Ladies’s Champions League

Arsenal have pulled off a significant upset by toppling the dominant staff in European soccer to win the Champions League for the second time, 18 years after the primary. Stina Blackstenius writes her title into historical past. Large credit score should go to Renee Slegers whose appointment turned the marketing campaign round, and her two substitutes Blackstenius and Mead mixed for the profitable aim. There have been some immense defensive performances, none higher than Leah Williamson.

Arsenal’s gamers have a good time profitable the Champions League – Getty Photos/Maja Hitij

06:56 PM BST97 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

A few of the Arsenal followers thought that was the ultimate whistle, however it was the referee blowing for a Barcelona free-kick in their very own half. Barely time left for an assault, they have been past the seven minutes.

06:55 PM BST96 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Barcelona run into site visitors once more, with Kim Little in the fitting place to choose up the unfastened ball. There may be then a foul on McCabe simply exterior the field. Arsenal free-kick, and they’re absolutely there now! Van Domselaar will launch it. Seconds left.

06:54 PM BST95 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Arsenal clear the nook, and Caldentey leads them ahead on the counter-attack. In opposition to her former membership, she holds onto the ball, slows down, and wins a vital foul. She used all her expertise there, simply what Arsenal wanted. They’re 90 seconds away from glory.

06:52 PM BST94 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Barcelona giving it one final push, however for the umpteenth time immediately Leah Williamson is in the fitting place to fulfill the cross and head behind for a nook. The referee is making an attempt to handle some grappling within the field. The nook is simply too crazy, and after Barcelona head the ball down Blackstenius hammers clear.

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Barcelona then misplace a cross into the field, however they preserve the stress on and win one other nook.

06:50 PM BST92 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Arsenal are shutting up store now: Wubben-Moy replaces Russo which suggests a change to a again 5. The flag goes up for offside in opposition to Blackstenius after one other beautiful reverse cross from Mead.

06:49 PM BST90 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Arsenal have made the sport fairly bitty with loads of stoppages. Blackstenius threatening in behind Barcelona’s defence once more however she hooks the ball over the bar.

There shall be SEVEN minutes off added time.

Mead wins one other foul. One other free-kick and the possibility to eat away time,

06:47 PM BST88 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Williamson wins one other header within the Arsenal field, earlier than Graham Hansen earns Barcelona a nook. So many our bodies attacking the ball, however an Arsenal head wins the primary contact. Barcelona are diminished to launching in crosses now, which is a praise to Arsenal’s form. Paralluelo and Mead run into one another, however the determination goes Arsenal’s approach. Free-kick and a reserving for the Barcelona participant. A member of Barcelona’s employees on the bench has additionally been booked.

06:44 PM BST86 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Arsenal have had a few harmful counter-attacks since scoring, however haven’t completed them off. They must be cautious about dropping the ball on the fringe of the field and being counter-attacked themselves. Strong defending from McCabe, earlier than Hurtig replaces Foord who has run her socks off.

06:42 PM BST83 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Bonmati with a shot that deflects agonisingly huge of the far put up. That was a torturous few seconds for Arsenal followers. One other Barcelona nook, and Williamson rises highest to go away, earlier than Van Domselaar claims one other cross within the subsequent section.

06:40 PM BST81 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Barcelona have rolled the cube with a double sub: Brugts and Engen on for defenders Leon and Rolfo. Foord tweaks her ankle which results in a brief stoppage, however the Arsenal winger is match to proceed.

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Leah Williamson has been immense, and he or she makes one other important clearance, nipping in entrance of Bonmati as Barcelona delivered one other harmful low cross. Bonmati’s cross then loops behind for a aim kick.

Classic smash-and-grab by Arsenal. Having absorbed remorseless second-half stress from Barcelona, Stina Blackstenius seizes her second, pouncing on the proper cross by Beth Mead to roll the ball previous Cata Coll. Her staff are only a few minutes from the unlikeliest of triumphs, as they chase changing into the primary English winners of the Ladies’s Champions League for 18 years.

06:36 PM BST78 minutes: Arsenal 1 Barcelona 0

Arsenal at the moment are 12 minutes plus stoppage time away from profitable the Ladies’s Champions League for a second time, however the remaining interval promised to really feel like an age as Barcelona push ahead. Can they maintain out?

06:34 PM BSTGOOOOAAALLL! Now Blackstenius has scored

Arsenal stored the ball alive from a nook, with Caldentey passing inside to Mead quite than throwing a cross into the field. Mead then produces a pleasant reverse cross that fully wrong-footed the Barcelona defence, discovering Blackstenius who completed calmly into the far nook with a shot by means of legs. The substitutes mix eight minutes after approaching.

Properly, effectively, effectively! It’s the 2 substitutes who mix. Beth Mead with a stunning ball in behind and Stina Blackstenius is there to complete. Can Arsenal maintain on for the ultimate quarter-hour?

Stina Blackstenius scores for Arsenal – Getty Photos/Patricia De Melo Moreira

Arsenal’s Stina Blackstenius celebrates her aim – PA/Zed Jameson

06:32 PM BST72 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Russo has dropped right into a deeper position now, and is working tirelessly to chop off Barcelona passing traces.

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And her strike associate Blackstenius has simply gone very near the opening aim! Arsenal’s finest second of the second half after she robbed Leon of possession. Blackstenius carried the ball in the direction of the field, might have handed to Mead, however she took on the shot and Coll stored the try out with an outstretched leg.

Barcelona then go on the assault, and Pajor’s headers loops into the roof of the online. Possibilities at each ends.

What an enormous likelihood for Stina Blackstenius. She did extremely effectively to win the ball again from Mapi Leon and create a gap for herself however her shot was too close to Cata Coll. Her tempo in behind has actually added one thing for Arsenal although.

06:28 PM BST70 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Essential clearance from Catley or else Pajor would have scored a tap-in from Rolfo’s low cross. Then Kim Little fees down Graham Hansen’s shot from the sting of the field. Arsenal have put in a single heck of a defensive shift, however will they tire within the Lisbon sunshine?

06:26 PM BST68 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal making a double sub: Blackstenius and Mead on, Kelly and Maanum off. Blackstenius will supply Arsenal some operating energy and tempo on the break, and Slegers now has two centre-forwards on the pitch.

06:25 PM BST66 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Chloe Kelly has been proven a yellow card for a push on Alexia Putellas off the ball. There’s a break in play now for each groups to tackle some water. Arsenal have preserved their clear sheet to very practically the three-quarter mark. Can they trend that one massive likelihood to win it?

06:23 PM BST63 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Batlle with one other strike from vary and it bounced awkwardly in entrance of Van Domselaar however she gathered on the second try.

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That was higher from Arsenal although, with McCabe driving into the field and there are massive appeals for a penalty after she is caught by a sliding deal with within the field. I feel the Barcelona defender nearly acquired to the ball first.

06:20 PM BST61 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Catley heads behind for a Barcelona nook. Arsenal then had the possibility to interrupt by means of McCabe however they misplaced the ball in a harmful space. Bonmati dribbling on the coronary heart of Arsenal’s defence once more, however her low strike to the close to put up was pushed across the put up by Van Domselaar. Then Batlle lets fly from lengthy vary, simply over the par.

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First Barcelona sub: Pina off, Salma Paralluelo on.

Aitana Bonmati shoots – Getty Photos/Maja Hitij

06:16 PM BST58 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Barcelona’s bench sad {that a} throw-in goes Arsenal’s approach. Williamson with an interception to partially minimize out Putellas’ cross earlier than the Arsenal centre-back blocks Pina’s shot. Nice place from Kim Little to choose off a Barcelona cut-back however Arsenal’s defence is dealing with a severe examination now.

A brief interval of Arsenal place within the Barcelona half, however Williamson’s cross was aimless.

06:13 PM BST56 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

One of many points Arsenal are having is, as a result of Russo is coming again to assist defend, she’s too deep after they do handle to clear their traces. It means the ball simply goes straight again to Barcelona, permitting them to come back ahead once more. Undecided how they repair that… that’s why I’m within the stands and never within the dug-out.

06:12 PM BST54 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Bonmati and Putellas are a rising affect on this recreation, which is worrying from Arsenal’s perspective. Each are so good in tight areas. Guijarro sends a shot whistling simply huge of the put up from 25 yards or so. Strain is rising, however as soon as once more Fox will get a foot in and Arsenal take pleasure in some respite in possession.

06:10 PM BST52 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Foord retains the ball alive for Arsenal after a free-kick is distributed into the mixer and cleared however then the winger dedicated a foul. Glorious defending once more from Fox, studying play effectively to intercept on the sting of Arsenal’s field.

06:08 PM BST49 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal just a little lucky that the referee provides Russo the foul on midway when Barcelona thought they have been away on the counter-attack. These straight passes are an invite to press for the opposition.

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Beautiful soccer from Barcelona, utilizing an overload on their left, and Pina’s shot deflects onto the bar and away to security! Van Domselaar was stranded however Arsenal survive.

On the different finish, Paredes has been proven a yellow card.

06:05 PM BST47 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal urgent Barcelona’s construct up from the off, however they defending champions discover their approach out of the stress. Graham Hansen delivers into the field and Emily Fox heads behind for a nook. Pina takes on a strike from distance after a brief nook routine, however the try was straight at Van Domselaar.

06:03 PM BSTWe’re again below approach

Arsenal kick off within the second half.

06:02 PM BSTThe gamers are again out for the second half

No adjustments from both supervisor on the break.

06:01 PM BSTFara Williams talking on TNT

Arsenal had a rocky begin to the sport however they’ve began to develop in confidence. You can begin to see their self-belief throughout the staff.

You’re actually begging on the sidelines for one in all these to go in and Kim Little with in all probability the perfect likelihood of all places it over the bar.

It’s coming for Arsenal. You possibly can see the assumption rising increasingly more as the sport has gone on.

05:55 PM BSTKathryn’s half-time verdict

half of soccer regardless of the scoreline. Possibilities for each groups however neither been medical sufficient. You do really feel Arsenal possibly needed to take one in all theirs, given the threats Barcelona pose. However they’d have taken a rating of 0-0 at half-time earlier than kick-off.

05:50 PM BSTHT: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal will take that. Barcelona have had spells of stress as anticipated however haven’t created too many clear-cut possibilities, with Fox and Williamson spectacular on the again for Arsenal. Slegers’ staff have additionally carried a risk, with Foord’s runs in behind the Barcelona defence inflicting issues, and so they thought they’d taken the lead till VAR’s (appropriate) intervention. They give the impression of being aggressive in opposition to the perfect staff on the planet.

Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord makes a block – Reuters/Violeta Santos Moura

05:46 PM BST45 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Fox very sturdy in one other defensive duel and as soon as once more Van Domselaar claims a cross. Arsenal’s goalkeeper has commanded her penalty space ever so effectively on this half.

05:45 PM BST44 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Foord believes she ought to have a nook after a Batlle problem, however the referee provides a aim kick. Replays present the Arsenal winger had a robust case.

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Arsenal then win the ball excessive in a very harmful place, however Caldentey run the ball into site visitors quite than choosing a cross. Arsenal had a 4 on two there on the fringe of the field.

05:43 PM BST42 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Kim Little tracks a midfield run effectively, yet one more signal of defensive self-discipline from Arsenal. Some appeals for handball penalty from Graham Hansen and the Barcelona followers, however nothing doing (for now anyway). Arsenal, for the primary time shortly, then take pleasure in some possession in the midst of the park.

05:40 PM BST40 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Van Domselaar has not essentially acquired nice distance on her punches however she is dealing effectively with Barcelona’s crosses and set-piece supply. Arsenal took the possibility to tackle some fluids earlier than a nook was taken. Sensible block by Fox after a cross was slipped into Pina contained in the field.

05:37 PM BST37 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Williamson provides the ball away however then defends beautifully one-on-one within the penalty space in opposition to Pina, ready for the opportune second to hook the ball away from the ahead. Graham Hansen then goes on a mazy dribble throughout the field however Arsenal’s defence deny her the possibility to shoot. McCabe blocks a cross in painful trend and Barcelona have a nook.

05:34 PM BST33 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal are ease with each the scale of the event and the energy of the opposition. They give the impression of being composed and bar that one scramble within the penalty space they’ve stored errors to a minimal.

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That was higher from Barcelona although, discovering the left-back Rolfo in acres of area however Foord defends diligently to dam her low cross.

05:31 PM BST30 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Kelly and Foord have swapped flanks, and it was slick soccer from Arsenal to launch Kelly down the left. She pulled the ball again behind the Barcelona defence however Foord couldn’t get a strike off. Bonmatí then dribbles in the direction of the Arsenal field in menacing trend however she shoots straight at Van Domselaar.

05:29 PM BST28 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Maanum with a candy strike from 25 yards which was heading in the direction of the highest scorner earlier than Coll tipped the ball across the put up. From the nook, the second ball drops for Little to strike simply contained in the field however she couldn’t preserve her effort down. Arsenal providing loads of attacking risk.

05:26 PM BST25 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

That might have put Arsenal in a dream-like place. Williamson clears a Graham Hansen low cross after some promising soccer from Barcelona. Foord then does effectively to tug Arsenal ahead and win a throw from Batlle. Russo then stands up a teasing cross to Emily Fox, however the Arsenal right-back couldn’t get the ball right down to shoot.

05:23 PM BSTNO GOAL: Maanum offside

That didn’t take too lengthy to test, the replay appeared fairly conclusive that the Arsenal midfielder had strayed.

Arsenal have been in dreamland for a minute there earlier than VAR spoiled the get together. Right determination as Maanum was offside when she put the cross in. A sign of the place Barcelona’s weak point is although. They’ve acquired to maintain concentrating on Paredes.

05:23 PM BSTGOOOAALLLL! Arsenal lead because of Paredes personal aim

Barcelona’s gamers are interesting for offside in opposition to Maanum, who made a dart behind the defence down the fitting. Her low cross was harmful, and on the stretch Paredes turned the ball past her personal goalkeeper.

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VAR is checking to see if Maanum is offside….

Irene Paredes scores an personal aim – Getty Photos/Patricia De Melo

05:21 PM BST20 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Arsenal simply struggling to clear their traces however a scooped cross in the direction of Putellas drifts behind for a aim kick. Slegers’ staff have made it by means of the primary 20 minutes unscathed, which they’d have signed for earlier than kick-off. Arsenal have a throw in Barcelona territory after battling centre-forward play from Russo.

05:18 PM BST17 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Russo heads a Barcelona nook away earlier than Van Domselaar punches effectively once more from the second section. Kim Little then defends effectively up in opposition to Graham Hansen within the penalty space. Alex Scott and Ian Wright are in Lisbon to cheer Arsenal on.

Alex Scott (left) and singer songwriter Jess Glynne – PA/Zed Jameson

Former Arsenal and England participant Ian Wright – PA/Zed Jameson

05:16 PM BST15 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Chloe Kelly volleys over the bar with an bold try from Foord’s cross, however the way in which during which Arsenal’s left-winger spun in behind the Barcelona defence was encouraging. Arsenal appear to be they will rating on this recreation, shutting out Barcelona is the tougher activity.

05:13 PM BST12 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Then Arsenal produce their finest transfer of the sport to date: Kim Little clipped a stunning cross to the again put up from the nook of the field, however Foord headed huge of the far put up with no team-mate arriving.

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However then Barcelona very practically ship a swift response. Bonmati with a pleasant chop to ship two pink and white shirts the incorrect approach, however she misplaced her footing on the important second. Her scuffed shot loops into the grateful arms of Van Domselaar.

05:11 PM BST10 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Panicky moments from Arsenal in their very own penalty space with Van Domselaar punching away below extreme stress earlier than Williamson provides away a sq. cross. Barcelona’s counter-pressing is so sharp these passes should not in in your individual territory. Arsenal nearly survive however it was sketchy defending.

05:08 PM BST8 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Barcelona are referred to as possession obsessives, however they’ve examined Arsenal with some lengthy balls ahead within the early phases. Van Domselaar needed to rush out of her space to partially clear along with her toes. Kelly then bundled over Pina close to the nook flag however the referee missed it. Pina stays down for some time however is now again on her toes.

05:06 PM BST6 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Williamson then reads play to intercept on the entrance foot, an assured begin from the Arsenal centre-back.

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Bonmati then carries the ball ahead by means of midfield, gliding throughout the bottom after which spreading the play proper however Arsenal’s defence recovers effectively and stands agency.

05:04 PM BST4 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

Good defending from Williamson as Barcelona tried to search out their striker Pajor with an early, direct ball ahead. Arsenal urgent effectively in midfield to drive a throw-in within the Barcelona half. Maanum tried to spin in behind the Barcelona defence however Bonmati eased her into contact.

05:02 PM BST2 minutes: Arsenal 0 Barcelona 0

A 3rd of the pitch is in shadow with the remaining in brilliant sunshine. Barcelona play in a the very classical 4-3-3 you affiliate with the membership, I feel Maanum getting near the quantity six Patri Guijarro shall be necessary. That place is foundational on this system, the hub in the midst of the wheel. Arsenal have loved some territory within the early exchanges however not a lot settled possession as but.

05:00 PM BSTKICK OFF!

Barcelona get the ultimate below approach.

Arsenal’s beginning XI for the Champions League remaining – Getty Photos/Patricia De Melo Moreira

04:58 PM BSTSlegers’ pre-match ideas

Each groups play actually good soccer, we respect their soccer, respect them in possession as a result of they’re so good on the ball and what they’ve added to their recreation is quicker assaults as effectively however you see them being very disciplined in all phases of play and that’s the staff we need to be as effectively. We must be disciplined to 90 minutes or 90 plus and if we do that actually effectively now we have an excellent recreation plan.

04:56 PM BSTThe two groups are within the tunnel

There may be an intense dry warmth contained in the Jose Alvalade Stadium forward of kick-off: formally 28 levels however by all accounts considerably hotter at pitch stage. You sense these circumstances are prone to favour Barcelona, particularly if the ultimate goes to further time.

04:48 PM BSTArsenal followers outnumbered

We’ve simply had every membership’s “anthems” performed and it must be mentioned there are extra Barcelona followers right here than Arsenal. Plenty of causes for that, one in all them being the Barcelona followers would have had the expectation of getting all the way in which to the ultimate at first of the season. Many of the Arsenal followers in all probability solely bought their tickets after their place was confirmed. Additionally a a lot shorter journey from Barcelona to Lisbon than it’s from London!

Barcelona followers count on a fourth European Cup – PA/Zed Jameson

04:45 PM BSTBarcelona supervisor Pere Romeu’s pre-match ideas

We put together little by little and step-by-step. The ultimate stretch of the season is essential and the thought is to have an excellent steadiness between having a recreation plan for this match and maintaining the rhythm and good feeling among the many gamers.

At this level within the season the work is already finished, there are only some little particulars lacking that are particular to the staff that you’re taking part in, which immediately is Arsenal. However I repeat, we arrive feeling good, we’re effectively ready and now we have whole perception that the women can go on and win every part. I hope that we are able to go on and win.

04:43 PM BSTArsenal heroes previous and current

Membership captain Kim Little, who makes her 77th Champions League look tonight, sat down to speak with Telegraph Sport alongside homegrown defender Lotte Wubben-Moy and 2007 Champions League winner Kelly Smith. Legendary goalscorer Smith is again at Arsenal working as a coach. You possibly can .

Wubben-Moy (left) says Arsenal are a membership who empower the gamers to be themselves – Clara Molden

04:38 PM BSTThe atmopshere is constructing

The stadium is beginning to refill right here. Arsenal and Barcelona are two of essentially the most well-supported groups in girls’s soccer so anticipating a vigorous environment. Even the mascots acquired concerned earlier, with Gunnersaurus taking over Barcelona’s “Cat Culer” within the fan zone.

Arsenal’s contingent of followers in Lisbon – Getty Photos/David Ramos

04:26 PM BSTAround 5,000 Arsenal followers are anticipated within the stadium

Arsenal followers within the stands forward of the UEFA Ladies’s Champions League remaining

Arsenal followers within the stands forward of the UEFA Ladies’s Champions League remaining at Estadio Jose Alvalade

04:23 PM BSTArsenal shall be carrying their residence package

Arsenal gamers in the course of the heat up earlier than the match – Reuters/Violeta Santos Moura

04:22 PM BSTArsenal’s key decision-makers are within the constructing

Arsenal are effectively represented right here in Lisbon. Co-chair Josh Kroenke, govt vice chair Tim Lewis and managing director Richard Garlick all right here. House owners flew in all the way in which from Denver. Additionally a number of of the U21s and returning mortgage gamers, class of 2007, and plenty of employees.

04:12 PM BSTThe view from the press box04:08 PM BSTWhat a distinction Slegers has made04:06 PM BSTKaren Carney is a pundit for TNT on the sport

Carney was an influential participant within the Arsenal staff that gained the Champions League in 2007. , she talks to Jeremy Wilson about why there isn’t any distinction between working as an analyst on the boys’s and girls’s recreation.

I see soccer as soccer. How are you going to win a recreation? Who’re the match-winners? Who’s going to be the distinction? What’s the shape going into it? Tactically have a look at the form and the techniques. I wouldn’t even know the distinction half the time after I’m watching the video games. My preparation doesn’t change.

04:00 PM BSTBarcelona’s beginning XI03:57 PM BSTArsenal staff information: Van Domselaar begins in aim with Kelly on wing

Arsenal beginning XI: Van Domselaar; Fox, Williamson, Catley, McCabe; Mariona, Little, Maanum; Kelly, Russo, Ford

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Subs: Zinsberger, Williams, Wubben-Moy, Codina, Illestedt, Nighswonger, Walti, Cooney-Cross, Pelova, Hurtig, Mead, Blackstenius

03:55 PM BSTThe daunting activity dealing with Arsenal

It’s troublesome to understand simply how dominant this Barcelona staff is. They’ve scored 5 targets or extra in a recreation on 15 events throughout all competitions this season. Of their remaining 4 league video games of the season, they conceded only one shot on track. Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí account for the final 4 Ballon d’Or winners. Levante, Actual Madrid and Man Metropolis have crushed them this season, however they wanted to journey their luck. The identical goes for Arsenal this night.

03:46 PM BSTLeah Williamson interview

The Arsenal defender was a mascot the final time the membership reached the ultimate of this competitors approach again in 2007. They have been victorious, and stay the one British staff to have gained the Ladies’s Champions League. , Williamson talks about Arsenal’s comeback in Lyon, the significance of her grandmother and this summer season’s Euros.

03:40 PM BSTArsenal’s unlikely run to the ultimate

At virtually each stage of the competitors, Arsenal have needed to retrieve a deficit or bounce again from a disappointment. They misplaced the primary leg of their qualifier in opposition to Hacken, shipped 5 of their first group recreation in opposition to Bayern Munich and misplaced the primary legs of their quarter and semi-final in opposition to Actual Madrid and Lyon. So if Barcelona rating the sport’s first aim, it is likely to be untimely to name it curtains.

03:35 PM BSTArsenal followers (and one Barcelona fan) in Lisbon03:30 PM BSTWhat Arsenal have to do to beat BarcelonaHold it tight early

It’d sound apparent, however conceding an early aim would spell bother for Arsenal. Chelsea conceded after lower than two minutes after they performed Barcelona within the 2021 remaining after which discovered themselves 4-0 down by half-time. It’s pivotal Arsenal don’t give themselves a mountain to climb.

Goal defensive weaknesses

Each nice staff has their flaws and Barcelona are not any completely different. There shall be gaps of their defensive position which Arsenal should look to use. Captain and centre-back Irene Paredes isn’t the quickest whereas goalkeeper Cata Coll can be liable to errors, particularly when she’s pressed on the ball.

Get of their heads

When Chelsea managed a 1-0 victory over Barcelona final season, they did so by irritating them. Chelsea broke up play, made plenty of niggly fouls and, as Aitana Bonmati complained after the sport, ran the clock down at each alternative. Arsenal managed to rattle Lyon within the semi-final and so they might want to do the identical in opposition to Barcelona.

Consider!

The saying goes “it’s the hope that kills you” however Arsenal should imagine they will beat Barcelona. Too many groups look crushed earlier than they exit on to the pitch and if Arsenal give them an excessive amount of respect, they won’t stand an opportunity. Barcelona are the reigning champions for a cause however Arsenal need to be right here and should again themselves.

03:29 PM BSTSign up03:29 PM BSTAlessia Russo calls on Arsenal to be impressed by the category of 2007

Alessia Russo says Arsenal will name on the spirit of the previous in opposition to Barcelona.

The membership is participating in its first European remaining since profitable the competitors 18 years in the past and so they invited the 2007-winning aspect to their coaching floor earlier within the week.

Arsenal are the one English staff to win the Champions League and Russo, who joined from Manchester United in 2022, mentioned listening to tales from former gamers hit residence how particular the membership’s historical past is.

“Any participant that performs for Arsenal understands it’s a profitable membership and it’s a membership that’s so bold and desires to be on the high competing with the perfect,” Russo mentioned.

“We’re very conscious of what’s come earlier than us. We had lunch with a number of the 2007 winners beforehand within the week and perceive how a lot it nonetheless means to them and the way particular it’s for us present gamers.”

This shall be Barcelona’s fifth straight remaining, with the membership having gained the competitors 3 times. Arsenal would be the underdogs however Russo says their victories over Lyon and Actual Madrid have instilled confidence and perception.

“We’ve discovered plenty of alternative ways to win this season,” Russo mentioned. “Perception is one thing we’ve spoken about lots. It’s been a season stuffed with highs and lows and in addition stuffed with plenty of learnings. That consequence and efficiency in Lyon is one thing we need to maintain on to.

“We would like that to be our normal. We all know we’re able to that. We all know it was particular and it was a consequence that we would have liked to get. We now have full perception going into the sport tomorrow. We now have been working arduous. We’ll do our greatest to exit and play in addition to we probably can as a bunch.

“I additionally imagine we’re an excellent soccer staff and the way in which we play or win video games is one thing you need to be part of. Internally we all know how good we’re and the type we need to play.”

Barcelona are prone to dominate possession however Arsenal supervisor Renee Slegers inspired her staff to be courageous on the ball.

“We respect Barcelona as a staff however we need to present braveness,” Slegers mentioned. “We’re very humble but in addition we’re right here to win. We now have to search out methods to win. I’m satisfied that the sport will shift in momentum and for us it’s going to be necessary we take care of all moments.”