Arsenal Football Club have etched their name into the history books as the inaugural winners of the Women's Champions Cup, securing a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Brazilian giants Corinthians in a pulsating final at the Emirates Stadium.
A Night of High Drama and Historic Achievement
The landmark fixture, played under torrential rain in north London, saw the Gunners claim not only the prestigious new trophy but also a significant prize purse of 2.3 million US dollars (£1.67 million). The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring late drama, a contentious penalty, and a concerning injury, ultimately decided by a moment of individual brilliance.
Narrative of the Match: From Opener to Equaliser
The scoring was opened in the 15th minute by Arsenal's Olivia Smith, who capitalised on a rebound after Corinthians goalkeeper Leticia had parried an initial effort from Stina Blackstenius. The Canadian international made no mistake, slotting the ball home to give the hosts an early advantage.
Corinthians, however, demonstrated their resilience by drawing level just six minutes later. A well-delivered corner found captain Gabi Zanotti, whose powerful header took a deflection off Kim Little, leading to a frantic goalmouth scramble. After a brief consultation, referee Katia Garcia confirmed the ball had crossed the line, awarding the equalising goal.
Arsenal Regain Lead Before Late Heartbreak
The Gunners restored their lead in the 58th minute through a classic set-piece goal. Defender Lotte Wubben-Moy rose magnificently to meet a pinpoint cross from Emily Fox, directing a powerful header past the despairing dive of Leticia. As the clock ticked towards full-time, it appeared Arsenal would secure the trophy in normal time.
Yet, in a dramatic twist deep into stoppage time, Arsenal's Katie McCabe was adjudged to have fouled Gisela Robledo from behind. After a VAR review confirmed the penalty decision, Corinthians' Vic Albuquerque stepped up and coolly fired the spot-kick straight down the middle, sending the match into an additional 30 minutes of play.
Extra-Time Decider and Concerning Finale
The first period of extra time saw both teams create chances, but it was Arsenal who found the crucial breakthrough. A swift counter-attack, initiated by a driving run from Frida Maanum through midfield, culminated in the ball being fed to substitute Caitlin Foord. The Australian forward displayed superb composure, deceiving the Corinthians keeper with a clever feint before slotting the winner inside the near post.
The celebrations were tempered, however, by a serious incident late in the second period of extra time. Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe was involved in a heavy collision and required extensive on-pitch treatment before being stretchered off, casting a shadow over the final moments of the historic contest.
Despite the sombre conclusion, Arsenal held firm to claim a landmark victory, securing the first-ever Women's Champions Cup in a match that will be remembered for its intensity, quality, and unforgettable narrative.
