Arsenal beats Benfica 2-0 to recover from opening loss in Women’s Champions League

Arsenal bounced back from their opening loss in the Women’s Champions League with a 2-0 victory over Benfica. Beth Mead and Alessia Russo were the goal scorers for Arsenal, breaking through a resilient Benfica defense.

The breakthrough for Arsenal came in the 57th minute when Mead managed to slide in ahead of Diana Gomes to score the opening goal. Prior to that, Arsenal had struggled to find a way past the Benfica defense, with goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar making a crucial save to deny Gomes from a free kick.

Russo sealed the victory for Arsenal in the 89th minute, converting a low free kick from Chloe Kelly. Mead acknowledged the physicality of the Benfica team, stating, “Benfica are a very physical team, they like to get under your skin.”

However, there were concerns for Arsenal as defenders Steph Catley and Emily Fox were both substituted due to apparent discomfort before Russo’s goal. The win was crucial for Arsenal to get back on track in the league stage after their previous defeat against OL Lyonnes.

In other Women’s Champions League matches, Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain, with Naomie Feller and Alba Redondo finding the back of the net for Madrid. Manchester United also claimed a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid, with Fridolina Rolfö scoring the lone goal despite losing Dominique Janssen to a red card.

Bayern Munich emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Juventus, with a stoppage-time winner confirmed by a video review. Pernille Harder and Lea Schüller were the goal scorers for Bayern, while Eva Schatzer scored for Juventus.

Overall, the Women’s Champions League continues to showcase thrilling matches and standout performances from top European clubs. Fans can expect more excitement and drama as the competition progresses.

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