Arsenal produced a stunning upset in Lisbon on Saturday, defeating Spanish giants Barcelona 1-0 to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The victory, sealed by a 74th-minute goal from Swedish striker Stina Blackstenius, gave the Gunners their second European crown, ending a wait since their 2007 triumph.
Playing at the José Alvalade Stadium, Arsenal defied the odds under coach Renee Slegers to dethrone Barcelona, who had won the competition three times in the last four seasons and were aiming for a third consecutive title.
Barcelona started brightly, dominating the opening stages under the intense Lisbon sun. Arsenal struggled early on to track the movement of two-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati. However, Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, returning to the starting line-up, reacted well to keep her side afloat by clearing dangerous crosses.
Midway through the first half, Arsenal appeared to take the lead when Irene Paredes turned a cross into her own net. But the goal was ruled out for offside against Frida Maanum during the build-up. The decision rattled Barcelona and appeared to energize Arsenal’s confidence.
Maanum then forced Cata Coll into a save with a powerful drive, while Kim Little blasted over after a loose ball from a corner fell her way. At the other end, Leah Williamson stood firm in defence, particularly against Polish striker Ewa Pajor, stifling her runs and closing down spaces.
Arsenal also managed to neutralize another Barcelona star, Alexia Putellas, while former Barca player Mariona Caldentey impressed in midfield for the English side.
Barcelona, who had scored 10 goals against Wolfsburg and eight against Chelsea in earlier rounds, lacked their usual sharpness in the first half. Their subdued display continued to draw criticism as they returned from the break.
In the second half, Barcelona showed more intent. The competition’s top scorer, Salma Paralluelo, saw a deflected shot loop against the crossbar, with Van Domselaar unable to move. Ona Batlle fired narrowly wide, and Van Domselaar had to deny Bonmati at the near post.
Arsenal, after absorbing pressure, created a breakthrough moment. Substitute Blackstenius was initially denied by Coll after a defensive lapse by Mapi Leon. But minutes later, Beth Mead—also off the bench—slipped a clever reverse pass to Blackstenius, who drilled the ball between Batlle’s legs into the far corner with 15 minutes left.
Barcelona failed to respond, and the expected late surge never came. Arsenal held on for a famous win in what was Barcelona’s 100th UEFA Women’s Champions League game.
Speaking after the final whistle, Arsenal’s players expressed their joy. “We’ve done it! We are champions of Europe once again,” read a celebratory post from the club’s official account.
