Arsenal rode past a determined OH Leuven side under challenging weather at Meadow Park to book a Women’s Champions League quarter-final meeting with Chelsea, sealing a 3-1 win to complete a 7-1 aggregate victory.
The Gunners reach the last eight of Europe’s premier women’s competition for a joint-record 17th time and now brace for a thrilling two-leg clash with their London rivals. With their latest European rout and an undefeated WSL record against Chelsea this season, Arsenal head into the ties believing they can defend their title.
When are Arsenal vs Chelsea in the Champions League?
The first leg is scheduled for either March 24 or 25 at the Emirates Stadium, with the return leg on April 1 at Stamford Bridge.
Arsenal’s advancement to the blockbuster against Chelsea looked assured from the outset after a 4-0 lead carried from the first leg. Wednesday’s return, however, proved more testing as rain swept in and wind battered a pitch torn up by play.
Team news
- Smilla Holmberg, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Alessia Russo started for Arsenal, while Olivia Smith served a suspension and Emily Fox and Leah Williamson started on the bench.
Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar had to be sharp early, denying Jada Conijnenberg in a one-on-one before facing a few more chances before the break.
Despite a potential fifth-minute chance for Frida Maanum, Arsenal were more assured after halftime, and Mariona Caldentey’s penalty finally broke Leuven’s resistance.
Caitlin Foord created the award with a burst down the left, and she was among several Gunners close to adding a second before Russo netted her second of the night in stoppage time as Renee Slegers’ side dropped further behind.
Additional notes
- Alessia Russo’s brace highlighted a memorable performance as Arsenal strengthened their grip on the tie.
Russo on the Chelsea tie
Alessia Russo spoke about the forthcoming clash with Chelsea, describing it as a positive sign for Arsenal’s form and confidence. She emphasized that Arsenal are playing well together, contributing across the team, and building momentum as they approach the business end of the season.
She also stressed the excitement of facing a familiar rival in Chelsea, noting that as teams advance toward the final stages, the level of opposition intensifies. For Russo, the forthcoming semi-final spot promises a high-caliber contest between two top teams fighting to reach the last four.
What’s next for Arsenal?
- Arsenal vs Chelsea in the Champions League: first leg at the Emirates (Mar 24/25), second leg at Stamford Bridge (Apr 1).
- Follow the remaining fixtures in the Women’s Super League, the Champions League, and related updates via Sky Sports platforms.
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