In the Uefa Women's Champions League, Arsenal face an uphill battle in the semi-finals against eight-time champions Lyon, who have a 2-1 lead from the first leg. Arsenal had more shots, possession, and touches inside Lyon's box but failed to capitalize, leaving them with a tough task to reach their first Champions League final since 2007. Lyon, unbeaten in the Champions League this season, have only been knocked out twice in 15 years after winning the first leg in the knockout stage. While Chelsea's Champions League hopes are fading after a 4-1 first-leg defeat to Barcelona, Arsenal believe they can still turn things around.
Former Gunners defender Jen Beattie said, "This isn't 4-1. It's a completely different narrative, Arsenal are still in it. It's a completely different conversation." To overcome Lyon, Arsenal must expose their weaknesses, which they did once in the group stage in 2022, scoring five goals. They will need to be more ruthless in front of goal and adapt to Lyon's playstyle, which involves playing in transition and threatening in the box.
Key battles include Katie McCabe against Kadidiatou Diani, Wendie Renard against Alessia Russo, and Mariona Caldentey against Lindsey Heaps. Arsenal must improve their crossing game, as they failed to make any of their 25 crosses count in the first leg against Lyon.
Source: BBC Sports Football
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