Arsenal Crowned First Women’s Champions Cup Winners After Epic Extra-Time Final
The inaugural Women’s Champions Cup delivered exactly the type of drama, emotion and high-level football that Fifa would have envisioned when launching the inter-continental competition last year. The historic final at the Emirates Stadium lived up to expectations, as Arsenal edged Brazilian champions Corinthians in extra time, securing the first title in the tournament’s history.
In a match defined by momentum swings, resilience and late twists, Arsenal eventually emerged victorious thanks to Caitlin Foord’s extra-time strike, sealing the trophy after a gripping contest that showcased the global appeal of women’s football.
A Final Packed With Drama
From the opening whistle, the contest had all the ingredients of a classic. Arsenal dominated large spells of possession, but Corinthians proved stubborn, disciplined and dangerous on the counter-attack. As the rain fell in north London, the final took on an added layer of intensity, with both teams refusing to give an inch.
The drama peaked in the 96th minute, when Corinthians were awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time. Vic Albuquerque stepped up and converted calmly, levelling the match at 2-2 and stunning the home crowd, forcing the game into extra time when Arsenal were seconds away from lifting the trophy.
However, Arsenal responded with composure and quality. In the 104th minute, Frida Maanum slipped a perfectly weighted pass through to Caitlin Foord, who kept her nerve to finish clinically and restore Arsenal’s lead. That goal proved decisive, securing Arsenal’s place in history as the first winners of the Women’s Champions Cup.
Emotional Scenes at Full-Time
At the final whistle, scenes of jubilation swept through the Emirates. Arsenal players celebrated passionately as club legend Arsène Wenger presented the trophy, a symbolic moment that connected the club’s illustrious past with a new chapter in women’s football.
For a squad that has endured a challenging domestic campaign, the significance of the triumph was clear. It was more than just another trophy—it was a moment of belief, momentum and validation.
“It’s not often you can say you’ve made history at Arsenal because so much history already exists,” said Lotte Wubben-Moy after the match. “We stand on the shoulders of giants. To win this inaugural competition, with our fans here, means everything.”
Leaders Reflect on a Landmark Win
Arsenal captain Kim Little echoed those sentiments, describing the occasion as unique and invaluable for the squad.
“It’s a special experience, being the first Champions Cup,” she said. “We’ll take a lot from winning today. Getting silverware matters, and this gives us something to build on.”
Manager Renee Slegers, who already tasted Champions League success with Arsenal last season, praised her team’s mentality and adaptability in difficult conditions.
“It was football in all its forms,” Slegers explained. “There was quality, physical battles, and shifts in momentum. In the rain, under pressure, the team found a way to win—and I’m very proud of them.”
A Timely Boost for Arsenal’s Season
The Champions Cup victory could not have come at a better time for Arsenal. Domestically, the Gunners have struggled to keep pace with WSL leaders Manchester City, and recent disappointment in the League Cup added pressure on the squad.
This triumph offers renewed confidence as Arsenal prepare for the decisive stages of the season. Sitting 13 points behind in the league, their focus now shifts to defending their Champions League title, where they face OH Leuven in the last 16 later this month. They also remain in contention in the FA Cup, keeping hopes of further silverware alive.
Little highlighted the importance of resilience after the late penalty setback.
“We showed incredible character,” she said. “Conceding so late is tough, but in extra time we responded, created chances, and Caitlin delivered. That’s what top teams do.”
Corinthians Play Their Part in a Classic
While Arsenal lifted the trophy, Corinthians were integral to turning the final into a memorable spectacle. Arriving in London during their off-season, the Brazilian side defied expectations, pushing one of Europe’s strongest teams to the limit.
Already responsible for a shock semi-final victory over Gotham FC, the seven-time Brazilian champions were inches away from another upset. Despite travel fatigue, lack of match sharpness and a heavy pitch, Corinthians displayed tactical intelligence, physical intensity and remarkable spirit.
“They were excellent,” said Slegers. “So much energy, passion and intelligence. They made it incredibly difficult.”
Fans Add Colour and Passion
Corinthians’ travelling supporters were another standout feature of the final. Among a crowd of 25,031, their energy and noise added a vibrant atmosphere, underlining the tournament’s global reach.
“There’s a big Brazilian community in London, and they showed up,” Wubben-Moy said. “That’s what this competition is about—bringing people together and showcasing the very best teams in the world.”
A Tournament That Sets the Standard
The success of the Women’s Champions Cup final has set a high bar for future editions. With elite teams from different continents competing on one stage, the tournament demonstrated its potential to become a major fixture in the women’s football calendar.
For Arsenal, lifting the trophy provides belief and direction. For Corinthians, the experience reinforced their status as one of the world’s top sides. And for the sport itself, the final offered a compelling argument for the continued growth of global women’s competitions.
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