Arsenal’s WSL opener against Manchester City ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving them with positives to build on but also areas to sharpen up. 

As the team now shifts focus to tonight’s must-win Champions League qualifier against BK Häcken, there’s no room for error. Down 1-0 from the first leg, Arsenal must come from behind and cannot afford another early Champions League exit, especially for a club of this pedigree. 

With home support tonight, the Gunners will look to deliver a clinical, dominant performance.

Key takeaways and performances from the Man City draw:

Frida Maanum was again a standout, with her signature late runs into the box causing City’s defence real trouble. Her ability to time these late arrivals adds a lethal edge to Arsenal's attack, and we’ll need more of that tonight.

Katie McCabe delivered a standout performance, excelling as an attacking wing-back and stepping up when it mattered most. Her technical ability on the ball combined with a tireless defensive shift earned her the Player of the Match honour. After a quieter display against Häcken in their previous meeting, McCabe's resilience shone through, bouncing back with leadership and impact. Her energy and commitment on both ends of the pitch will be key as Arsenal face Häcken again tonight.

Caitlin Foord impressed with her ability to stretch the City defence with her pace and positional instincts. However, like some of her teammates, she occasionally struggled to track full-back runs in defence, leaving gaps that City exploited. Defending those spaces more diligently will be key against Häcken.

Laia Codina orchestrated the backline well, displaying excellent ball recovery and defensive organisation. Her leadership and composure will be crucial as Arsenal seek to keep things tight at the back tonight.

Kim Little showed her class as a playmaker, threading clever passes to open up attacking spaces. However, she found herself outnumbered in defensive duties at times, especially when dealing with City’s midfield knock-downs. This is an area the team must address moving forward.

Up top, Stina Blackstenius provided her usual strength and hold-up play but needs to be more clinical. Arsenal carved out several good chances, and finishing those will be crucial in a game where margins are tight.

Mariona Caldentey was heavily involved in creative set-pieces, including a clever short-corner routine that almost paid off. Her ball control and dribbling are a constant threat, and she’ll be a key player in breaking down Häcken’s defence tonight.

Tactical strengths and weaknesses:

Arsenal’s ability to build from the back was clear, with the goalkeeper and backline forming a 3-4-4 in possession. While this approach allowed them to play through City’s press, they weren’t afraid to exploit space by launching balls for the forwards to chase when the opposition pressed high.

The team’s transitions from defense to attack were sharp, and when breaking through City’s press, they attacked with real purpose. However, finishing was a problem, and that needs to be improved to capitalise on these breakaway opportunities.

Defensively, Arsenal pressed well, but they allowed too much space for City’s midfielders on knock-down balls and were vulnerable to shots from outside the box. These weaknesses need tightening up to avoid conceding against a disciplined Häcken side.

Arsenal created seven clear-cut chances but managed to convert only two (FotMob). 

Tonight: All or Nothing against BK Häcken:

Arsenal enter tonight’s clash 1-0 down from the first leg and must come from behind to advance in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. This is a pivotal moment for the team, as they simply cannot afford another early exit from Europe’s top competition. 

With home support behind them, Arsenal’s depth and quality must shine through.

We should expect a determined, attacking Arsenal tonight.