Arsenal Women Claim Historic Champions Cup Victory Over Corinthians

Arsenal Women player ratings take center stage as the Gunners etched their name into history, becoming the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup winners with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time triumph over Corinthians at the Emirates Stadium. Caitlin Foord emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal after a fierce contest that showcased the resilience and attacking prowess of Arsenal Women.

Arsenal Women Player Ratings: Standout Performances Shine

The Arsenal Women squad started the match with intensity, immediately putting Corinthians on the back foot. Within moments, Alessia Russo nearly broke the deadlock after being played through by Emily Fox, only to be denied by goalkeeper Lele. However, Arsenal’s pressure paid off when Olivia Smith capitalized on a defensive error to slot home the opener, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Corinthians responded with equal resolve, forcing Anneke Borbe into a stunning save as she tipped Duda Sampaio’s powerful effort onto the crossbar. From the ensuing corner, Gabi Zanotti managed to prod the ball over the line, leveling the score and keeping the contest finely balanced.

Throughout the first half, Arsenal Women continued to impress. Beth Mead orchestrated several promising attacks, while Blackstenius and Smith threatened consistently. Lele’s outstanding goalkeeping kept Corinthians in the match as the sides entered halftime level.

Wubben-Moy and Fox Key to Arsenal Women’s Control

The second half saw Arsenal Women regain control. The breakthrough came just before the hour mark when Lotte Wubben-Moy rose highest to head home a precise Fox cross, restoring Arsenal’s lead. The duo’s link-up, along with Fox’s regular forays forward, underscored their importance to the team’s structure.

Despite Arsenal’s dominance, Corinthians refused to back down. Jhonson’s surging run nearly resulted in an equalizer, but Borbe’s bravery in goal preserved the advantage.

Disaster struck deep into stoppage time as Katie McCabe’s challenge resulted in a contentious penalty, allowing Vic Albuquerque to level the match and send it to extra time. McCabe, until that moment solid at both ends, found herself at the center of a debatable call.

Caitlin Foord Secures Arsenal Women’s Place in History

Refusing to be deflated, Arsenal Women surged forward in extra time. Substitute Frida Maanum’s surging run and clever pass found Caitlin Foord, who calmly finished to put Arsenal ahead once more. Foord, who had earlier struck the post, made no mistake this time, her goal proving decisive as the Gunners held firm against late Corinthians pressure.

Defensive Resilience and Tactical Acumen Shine

The final minutes were tense, especially after Borbe had to be stretchered off following a late injury. Daphne van Domselaar stepped in as a concussion substitute, helping Arsenal Women maintain composure at the back. Renee Slegers’ tactical awareness was evident throughout, with her substitutions—particularly bringing on Foord and Maanum—proving decisive in extra time.

Comprehensive Arsenal Women Player Ratings

– Anneke Borbe (8/10): Commanding in goal, produced crucial saves, but unfortunately exited late due to injury.
– Emily Fox (8/10): Dynamic at right-back, with a vital assist and constant attacking threat.
– Lotte Wubben-Moy (8/10): Towering header for the second goal and defensively solid throughout.
– Steph Catley (7/10): Steady presence, composed distribution.
– Katie McCabe (6/10): Reliable defensively but conceded a late penalty; responded well in extra time.
– Kim Little (8/10): Tenacious and influential in midfield, covered significant ground.
– Mariona Caldentey (7/10): Helped control the tempo, linking play effectively.
– Beth Mead (8/10): The creative heartbeat, instrumental in most attacking moves.
– Alessia Russo (7/10): Persistent threat, intelligent movement in the final third.
– Olivia Smith (8/10): Clinical finish for the opener, lively all match.
– Stina Blackstenius (6/10): Created opportunities but lacked the final touch.

Substitutes played their part: Frida Maanum’s (7/10) assist for the winner was crucial; Caitlin Foord (8/10) took the match-winning opportunity with composure. Support from Holmberg, Kelly, Codina, and late entries by Pelova and van Domselaar ensured Arsenal Women finished strongly.

Arsenal Women Set the Benchmark in Women’s Football

This Champions Cup final displayed the depth and determination within Arsenal Women’s squad. From Borbe’s heroics and Wubben-Moy’s leadership at the back to Foord’s clinical finish, the Gunners repeatedly found answers to Corinthians’ spirited challenges. Despite the setback of conceding a late penalty and losing Borbe to injury, Arsenal’s tactical discipline and mental resilience stood out.

Manager Renee Slegers deserves immense credit for her game management, particularly with inspired substitutions that directly shaped the outcome. For those wishing to stay updated on the latest in women’s football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Arsenal Women’s Triumph Signals a New Era

Arsenal Women’s victory in the inaugural Champions Cup is more than just silverware. It’s a statement of intent, signaling their readiness to lead European women’s football. With a blend of youthful energy, tactical nous, and experienced heads, this squad is poised for further glory. If they continue displaying such courage and unity, Arsenal Women are set to build a legacy well beyond this famous night.