Arsenal Women Secure Emphatic Victory to Reach Champions Cup Final
Arsenal Women produced a commanding and professional performance to defeat Moroccan champions AS Far 6-0 in the semi-final of the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup. The comprehensive victory at a packed stadium earned the English side a place in Sunday's final, where they will face Brazilian outfit Corinthians, who earlier secured a surprise 1-0 win over Gotham FC.
First-Half Blitz Sets the Tone
The match was effectively decided within the opening forty-five minutes as Arsenal raced into a four-goal lead. Stina Blackstenius opened the scoring in the eighth minute, with goalline technology confirming her header had crossed the line despite a last-ditch clearance attempt from AS Far's Aziza Rabbah.
Frida Maanum doubled the advantage just four minutes later with a composed finish, demonstrating the clinical edge of Arsenal's experienced starting lineup. The third goal arrived from the penalty spot after a handball by Zineb Redouani was spotted by the video assistant referee, with Mariona Caldentey calmly converting. Olivia Smith added a fourth before the interval, completing a devastating first-half display.
Russo Adds Late Brace to Complete Rout
With the result beyond doubt, Arsenal manager Renée Slegers took the opportunity to rotate her squad, introducing England international Alessia Russo on the hour mark. The substitute made an immediate impact, scoring twice within ten minutes to complete the scoring and underline Arsenal's superiority.
"The players dealt so well with the unknown because it's the first time we played against them," said Slegers after the match. "I'm really happy with that. We are very together at the moment. We're connected on the pitch. We're doing things with a lot of discipline."
Historic Encounter Highlights Development Gap
This match represented the first competitive meeting between a European women's club and an African women's club in an official fixture. While AS Far arrived as worthy representatives of African football, having won two Champions League titles in four years, the developmental gulf between the continents was evident throughout the contest.
The Moroccan side set up with a defensive formation featuring a back five and four midfielders, but they were unable to contain Arsenal's attacking quality. Despite the one-sided scoreline, Slegers paid tribute to their opponents, stating: "First of all, compliments to the opposition. Of course, it was a hard game for them tonight, but I think the way they presented themselves and the way they represented football in Morocco and as the champions of Africa, it was very inspirational."
Final Preparations Underway
Arsenal now turn their attention to Sunday's final against Corinthians, with Slegers acknowledging the challenge ahead: "Now we've earned the right to play in the final, that's one step closer to being history makers and that's what we want to be. Full respect to Corinthians and what they did against Gotham, that was very impressive, so it's going to be a tough game."
The tournament comes at a busy period for Arsenal, who face a crucial Women's Super League clash against leaders Manchester City next week before the UEFA Women's Champions League resumes in two weeks' time. However, with a trophy and a significant share of the £1.7 million prize fund at stake, the incentive for success remains substantial.
