A packed-out Emirates stadium watched on as Arsenal hosted Lyon in the UWCL semi-final. Arsenal had the first chance, a link up between Katie McCabe and Frida Maanum saved by Lyon’s Endler.

It was quickly clear why Lyon are such giants in this competition, the level of play vastly increasing from that of the quarter final. Their pace and ruthless runs seeing them rewarded with a goal in the 17th minute, initially called offside, the decision was overturned by VAR and Lyon went 1-0 up.

A couple of weak waves of attack from Arsenal saw no joy, their best attempt of the first half perhaps in the 22nd minute when there was a flurry of headers from Arsenal players in the box, ending in Maanum sending it just wide of the post.

Lyon’s Dumornay, in seeing Zinsberger off her line, took a shot from huge distance, Arsenal lucky that it hit the bar. The Gunners held on for the remainder of the first half despite Lyon’s best efforts, and the half ended 0-1.

Arsenal started the second half on the front foot, with a sense in the stadium that a goal was coming. However, the Gunners failed to strike from open play, until, during a corner, Lyon gave away a penalty due to a handball. Mariona Caldentey stepped up to the spot, making it look easy as she slotted home the equaliser.

The elated Emirates atmosphere was short lived, as a speedy counterattack by Lyon’s Dumornay resulted in their second goal. The end-to-end affair continued, with Diani having a good chance for Lyon, saved by Zinsberger.

A lot of game management from Lyon saw them run the clock down, leaving Arsenal with less chances to level the score. Lyon’s attacks did not cease until the final whistle, a welcome sound for the passionate Arsenal fans here.

Final score, 2-1 win to Lyon. 

Player Ratings

Manuela Zinsberger 6.5/10

Despite the goals conceded, one of her better games this season, more confident with her feet, Lyon’s two goals were excellent strikes, not the goalkeeper’s fault. Shame she is unable to reach big distances with her goalkick’s however. Good saves in the 90th minute.

Emily Fox 7.5/10

Her pace was needed in this tie to match the speed of the Lyon front three, good when left deep to chase the counterattacks. Played well in combination with Beth Mead, a highlight of the game. 

Leah Williamson 6.5/10

Very calm on the ball, took her time when in space to pick out the right pass. Good defensive headers. Couldn’t outpace the Lyon attack. 

Steph Catley 6/10

Reliable at the back, often stopping Lyon’s counterattacks when waiting deep, but was outrun by attackers a couple of times.

Katie McCabe 7/10

Consistent performance, fighting for every ball, unfortunate with some of her set-piece deliveries, but the sort of player needed in a clash like this with her passion and fight.

Kim Little 7.5/10

A strong figure in the midfield, technically sound and good at getting out of tight spaces in possession, her experience and leadership is necessary in a game like today’s. One of the players of the game.

Frida Maanum 6.5/10

Had a couple of early chances and made some good runs into the box, however didn’t always commit to these runs, and was never pacy enough in getting back to defend. Replaced by Blackstenius in the second half. 

Mariona Caldentey 7/10

Available all over the pitch, attack, defence, left and right, however, possibly spread herself too thinly, not having a huge impact in any of those positions. Much more effective in the second half, drawing on her experience of this team and having more impact in the middle.

Beth Mead 7.5/10

A standout player of the half, strong in possession and always in good spaces to receive passes, great that she is continuing her recent run of form. Replaced by Kelly in the second half.

Alessia Russo 6.5/10

Not particularly active in attack in the first half but was effective in getting back to defend. Replaced in the second half after a lack of attacking action in the number 9 and 10 roles she played.

Caitlin Foord 6.5/10

Fought well against international teammate Ellie Carpenter, with some pace and tenacity on the left-hand side. A couple of good balls into the box.

Chloe Kelly (Sub 62’) 6.5/10

Played on the right wing, had a couple of great runs down the side, took a shot from range which went

Stina Blackstenius (Sub 62’) 6.5/10

The game called for her physicality and pace, which she used well. Not able to find the net from her number 9 position.

Victoria Pelova (Sub, 83’)

Lia Wälti (Sub, 83’)

Subs not used:

Naomi Williams, Amanda Ilestedt, Jenna Nighswonger, Katie Reid, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Rosa Kafaji