Arsenal Women Crowned Champions Cup Winners After Extra-Time Thriller

Arsenal Women secured their place in history as the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup winners, edging Corinthians 3-2 in a dramatic extra-time battle at Emirates Stadium. Caitlin Foord emerged as the extra-time hero, netting the decisive goal and sealing the Gunners’ triumph in a night filled with outstanding individual performances and late-game drama.

Arsenal Women’s Champions Cup Victory: Key Moments

Arsenal Women set the tone early, dominating possession and crafting chances from the outset. Within minutes, Alessia Russo was denied by a superb save, signaling the Gunners’ intent. Their persistence was rewarded in the 12th minute after a defensive lapse by Leticia Teles. Stina Blackstenius was thwarted by Corinthians keeper Lele, but Olivia Smith followed up to slot home the opener, igniting celebrations among the home fans.

Corinthians struck back quickly. Duda Sampaio’s fierce shot forced an acrobatic save from Arsenal’s Anneke Borbe, but from the ensuing corner, Gabi Zanotti bundled the ball over the line, leveling the score.

Foord and Wubben-Moy Shine as Arsenal Women Overcome Setbacks

As the match progressed, Arsenal Women’s relentless attacking play continued to threaten. Beth Mead and Blackstenius both came close, yet the breakthrough wouldn’t come until just before the hour. Emily Fox’s pinpoint delivery found Lotte Wubben-Moy, who powered home a header to restore Arsenal’s lead and put them on the brink of glory.

Goalkeeper Anneke Borbe was instrumental in keeping the Gunners ahead, producing a crucial save against Jhonson. However, drama ensued deep into stoppage time. Katie McCabe’s challenge on Gisela Robledo resulted in a contentious penalty, coolly converted by Vic Albuquerque to send the game to extra time.

Caitlin Foord Delivers the Decisive Blow in Extra Time

Undeterred by the setback, Arsenal Women charged forward in extra time. Frida Maanum sparked a swift counter-attack, feeding Caitlin Foord, who finished confidently at the near post to secure the historic win. Despite intense pressure from Corinthians, Arsenal’s defense remained resolute, ensuring the Champions Cup would be decorated in North London colors.

Arsenal Women Player Ratings: Champions Cup Final

• Anneke Borbe (8/10): Delivered vital saves throughout, including a spectacular tip onto the bar. Unfortunate to exit late due to injury, her contribution was immense.
• Emily Fox (8/10): Provided constant attacking threat and a brilliant assist for Wubben-Moy’s goal.
• Lotte Wubben-Moy (8/10): Commanded the backline and scored a pivotal header, epitomizing Arsenal’s resilience.
• Steph Catley (7/10): Steady and assured, contributing both defensively and in possession.
• Katie McCabe (6/10): Worked tirelessly but conceded the penalty that nearly cost Arsenal; recovered well in extra time.
• Kim Little (8/10): Dictated play in midfield, showcasing her leadership and tireless work rate.
• Mariona Caldentey (7/10): Calm and creative in midfield, helping Arsenal control the tempo.
• Beth Mead (8/10): Central to Arsenal’s attacking play, always a threat.
• Alessia Russo (7/10): Stretched the Corinthians defense and created several chances.
• Olivia Smith (8/10): Scored a well-taken goal and troubled the Corinthians backline throughout.
• Stina Blackstenius (6/10): Found good positions, but lacked the finishing touch on the night.

Arsenal’s Impactful Substitutes and Tactical Management

• Frida Maanum (7/10): Made an instant impact after coming on, assisting Foord’s winner with a determined run.
• Caitlin Foord (8/10): The match-winner, demonstrating composure and clinical finishing in extra time.
• Smilla Holmberg (6/10): Provided energy and work rate after coming on.
• Chloe Kelly (6/10): Played a valuable supporting role late in the game.
• Laia Codina (6/10): Added defensive solidity during the tense closing stages.
• Victoria Pelova / Daphne van Domselaar (N/A): Cameo roles late in extra time.

Manager Renee Slegers (8/10): Masterminded the victory with smart tactical adjustments, ensuring Arsenal Women dominated much of the contest and showing faith in substitutes who delivered at the crucial moment.

What This Means for Arsenal Women

Claiming the first-ever FIFA Women’s Champions Cup is a huge statement for Arsenal Women, emphasizing their quality, depth, and mental fortitude on the big stage. With stars like Foord, Wubben-Moy, Mead, and Smith all delivering when it mattered most, the Gunners have set the standard for European women’s football.

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Opinion: Arsenal Women’s Victory Underscores Their Elite Status

In my view, Arsenal Women’s performance in the Champions Cup final was a testament to their growth as a team under pressure. Despite late setbacks and an injury blow to their goalkeeper, they maintained composure and found a way to win. Foord’s decisive goal capped off a night when several players—especially Wubben-Moy and Mead—showed their class. This win not only brings silverware but also sends a clear message: Arsenal Women are here to dominate European football.