Arsenal Women Crash Out of Champions League After Lyon Defeat

Arsenal Women F.C. were knocked out of the UEFA Women’s Champions League after losing 3-1 to Olympique Lyonnais Féminin on Saturday.

The defeat meant Arsenal lost the semi-final 4-3 on aggregate despite fighting back strongly in the second half.

Lyon started the match brightly and almost scored early on when Ada Hegerberg missed a clear chance from close range.

The French side took the lead in the 17th minute after Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy fouled Melchie Dumornay in the penalty area.

Wendie Renard saw her first penalty saved by goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, but VAR ordered the kick to be retaken because the goalkeeper moved off her line too early. Renard then scored with the second attempt.

Lyon doubled their lead in the 36th minute when Kadidiatou Diani finished from a corner to put the hosts ahead on aggregate before half-time.

Arsenal improved after the break and came close through Stina Blackstenius, whose effort hit the crossbar. Another chance from Olivia Smith also struck the post.

The visitors finally found a goal in the 75th minute when substitute Smilla Holmberg crossed for Alessia Russo to score and level the tie on aggregate.

However, Lyon secured victory late in the game through Julie Brand. The goal was first ruled out for offside, but after a long VAR review it was allowed to stand, even though replays appeared to show Brand was offside.

Arsenal will now focus on the Women’s Super League, starting with an away match against Brighton & Hove Albion Women F.C. on Wednesday.