Arsenal delivered a vital response in the Women’s Champions League as Alessia Russo scored a brilliant second-half brace to secure a comeback victory over Real Madrid. The win not only revived Arsenal’s European campaign but also restored confidence after a difficult run of form.

The match looked challenging early on when Real Madrid’s Caroline Weir stunned the hosts with a superbly struck volley, giving the Spanish side a first-half lead. Despite the setback, Arsenal regrouped and came out of the break with renewed intensity. England striker Alessia Russo proved the difference, twice rising highest to head Arsenal into the lead and seal the three points the Gunners desperately needed.

A Crucial Win After a Difficult Spell

Before this match, Renee Slegers’ Arsenal side had gone three consecutive games without victory, including a painful 3-2 loss to Bayern Munich in which they had surrendered a two-goal advantage. Draws against Tottenham and Chelsea had further stalled momentum and raised concerns about their ability to progress from the Champions League league phase.

This victory, however, places Arsenal back on a strong footing with just two matches remaining. Finishing in the top four of the 18-team league phase is essential, with only those teams earning automatic qualification for the quarter-finals.

Russo Leads the Charge as Arsenal Improve in Second Half

Despite Arsenal struggling to generate clear-cut chances throughout the match, Russo’s clinical finishing proved decisive. Record signing Olivia Smith impressed with her direct running and forced Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez into several saves, providing energy in the final third.

Real Madrid’s attacking duo Linda Caicedo and Naomie Feller remained dangerous throughout the match, stretching Arsenal’s defence and keeping the game tense. However, the Gunners showed superior control in the second half, and it ultimately paid off.

Real Madrid manager Pau Quesada expressed disappointment after the match, saying his side “deserved more” and regretting their failure to extend their early lead. Nevertheless, he praised his players’ aggression and strong identity despite the eventual defeat.

Arsenal’s Response Under Pressure

Coming into the game eight points behind Women’s Super League leaders Manchester City, Arsenal found themselves under significant pressure to deliver. Slegers opted for four changes in the starting lineup, refreshing the attack and handing Chloe Kelly a starting position.

Kelly’s impact was immediate—her well-placed cross led to Russo’s first goal, bringing Arsenal level. Substitute Beth Mead also played a defining role, swinging in the corner that Russo headed home for the winning goal.

Though the performance was far from flawless, the team showed resilience, something Slegers emphasized after the match. She admitted the team had gone through a difficult period but praised her squad’s response under pressure, saying the result was more important than the performance.

Fans Rewarded Despite Freezing Conditions

More than 3,000 supporters braved the cold at Meadow Park, and in the end, they were rewarded with a hard-earned comeback victory. While the display lacked the fluid attacking structure that defined last season’s European success, the result could mark a turning point in Arsenal’s season.

Slegers has navigated difficult slumps in the past, and this victory may prove the catalyst Arsenal need to regain form both domestically and in Europe.

What’s Next for Arsenal and Real Madrid?

Arsenal now turn their attention back to the Women’s Super League, where they will host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, 6 December. They resume Champions League action shortly after with a critical home clash against FC Twente on 9 December.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, return to Liga F play against Eibar on 23 November before preparing to host Wolfsburg in their next Champions League fixture.

Player of the Match: Alessia Russo

Alessia Russo earned a standout average rating of 9.15, reflecting her match-winning performance and leadership in Arsenal’s comeback.

Other top Arsenal performers included:

• Chloe Kelly (7.76) – a major creative influence
• Olivia Smith (7.58) – consistently dangerous in attack
• Beth Mead (7.52) – impactful after coming off the bench