Arsenal Women Falter as Lyon Take Commanding Champions League Win

Arsenal Women stumble in Champions League opener as Lyon claim 2-1 victory

Arsenal Women Struggle Early in Champions League Defence

Arsenal Women’s Champions League campaign got off to a shaky start as they fell 2-1 to Lyon at Meadow Park. It was a disappointing result for the Gunners, who just months ago celebrated European glory after toppling Lyon in the semi-finals. This time, however, it was the French giants who delivered a statement of intent, gaining revenge and leaving Arsenal without a win in four consecutive matches.

Fast Start Undone by Defensive Errors

The match began brightly for Arsenal Women. Alessia Russo put the hosts ahead in the seventh minute, finishing a move that owed much to Beth Mead’s excellent footwork and vision. Russo’s goal was a moment of true quality, raising hopes that Arsenal’s winless run would end.

However, defensive lapses soon shifted the momentum. Goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, under little pressure, played the ball straight to Melchie Dumornay, allowing the Lyon forward to equalize quickly. The error rattled Arsenal, and Lyon seized control for the remainder of the first half.

Dumornay’s Brilliance Seals Lyon Victory

If Dumornay’s first goal was a gift, her second was sheer brilliance. The Haitian international unleashed a sensational strike from 20 yards, finding the top corner and leaving van Domselaar with no chance. The visitors could have extended their lead further, but wasteful finishing and some sharp saves from van Domselaar kept the score respectable.

Arsenal Women Player Ratings and Missed Opportunities

Despite Russo’s impressive start, Arsenal Women rarely threatened after falling behind. Mariona Caldentey saw her effort well saved shortly after Lyon’s second, and Caitlin Foord went agonizingly close in stoppage time. Yet, clear-cut chances were few as Lyon controlled possession and tempo, illustrating why they remain one of the continent’s elite.

Individual performances for the Gunners were mixed. Russo was lively and clinical early, while Mead’s creativity stood out. Defensively, however, Arsenal were second best, particularly in midfield transitions and under pressure at the back. Van Domselaar redeemed herself with a double save before halftime but could not escape the shadow of her costly mistake.

Winless Run Raises Questions for Arsenal Women

This defeat means Arsenal Women are now four games without a win—an unwelcome milestone not seen since January 2022. The run includes recent draws against Manchester United and Aston Villa and a loss to Manchester City, highlighting a dip in form at a crucial point in the season.

Head coach Renee Slegers, while not under immediate pressure regarding her position, will know the importance of restoring confidence and momentum. With Champions League ambitions on the line, Arsenal Women must regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in a challenging group.

What’s Next for the Gunners?

The Gunners must now focus on reigniting their Champions League push and rediscovering their winning formula in the Women’s Super League. Their next fixture offers a chance to turn the tide and set the tone for the rest of the campaign.

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Opinion: Can Arsenal Women Bounce Back?

Arsenal Women’s defeat to Lyon is a sobering reminder that defending a European crown is never easy. The negative run is concerning, but there is enough talent and resilience in this squad to recover. Slegers must quickly address the defensive issues and reignite the attacking spark that made Arsenal such a force last season. With the right tweaks and renewed focus, the Gunners can get back on track—though they must do so quickly to avoid a lost season.