After just 24 minutes, Arsenal were dejected as well as depleted. Conceding the opening goal in Wolfsburg was not a disaster but what followed threatened to be. Within moments, Arsenal gifted Wolfsburg a second: a mix-up between Rafaelle and Jen Beattie in defence allowed Sveindiis Jane Jonsdottir to double her side’s lead and with it, take full control of this Champions League semi-final.
Given the circumstances, Arsenal could have crumbled. Instead, they produced a magnificent comeback of grit, spirit and resolve. Rafaelle’s vital header before the break restored hope and Jonas Eidevall’s side were excellent in the second half, sticking to their principles despite the key players they are missing. This was a result owed to those who remained.
