There is something about the Women’s Champions League at this time of year that kicks Arsenal into life. Trailing a physical Lyon side 1-0 in the first leg of the semi-finals at the Emirates on Sunday, it was as if they remembered it. It wasn’t always convincing, but that is not always Arsenal’s style, either. Turning the tie around, though, and in such commanding style, illustrated a mentality and an ability to solve problems on the pitch that has brought the defending champions to the brink of a second Champions League final in a row.
Avoid defeat in France next week and Arsenal will be heading to Oslo to either face Barcelona, in a rematch of last year’s final, or Bayern Munich. The semi-finals last season were a reminder of how quickly things can change – Arsenal had lost 2-1 to Lyon here at this stage last campaign, only to advance thanks to a 4-1 victory away from home – but under Renee Slegers this team exudes the belief of a side who know they can get it done. “You saw a team on a mission,” said the fit-again Leah Williamson.
