Discover how Alessia Russo and Caldentey led Arsenal to a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory. Explore the highlights and key moments of this unforgettable match.
Introduction:
Arsenal mounted a dramatic comeback to secure a crucial 3-2 victory over Bayern München in a pulsating Champions League encounter at Meadow Park. The win, apart from underlining Arsenal’s resilience, sealed their position at the top of Group C, marking a remarkable turnaround under interim coach Renée Slegers.
Alessia Russo Start from Arsenal
From the first whistle, Arsenal looked determined to make an impact. Their early attacking intent saw Alessia Russo testing Bayern’s defense, much to the delight of the home supporters. The Gunners capitalized on a set-piece opportunity in the opening minutes when Cooney-Cross delivered a curling corner into the box. In the swirling wind, Glódís Viggósdóttir inadvertently nodded the ball into her own net, giving Arsenal an early lead.
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Bayern, though, were not fazed. The visitors retaliated with periods of possession, trying to penetrate a well-organized Arsenal defense. Arsenal defenders were agile in closing gaps, keeping Bayern’s leading scorer, Pernille Harder, in check.
Bayern’s Resilience and Eriksson’s Heroics
Bayern’s equalizer came from a well-worked set piece. Giulia Gwinn’s deep corner was met by Georgia Stanway, whose downward header lacked power. But Magdalena Eriksson was on hand to react quickly, smashing the ball into the net to equalize before half-time. The former Chelsea defender, who last scored against Arsenal back in May 2023, turned out to be Bayern’s catalyst on the night. See also: Alexia & Aitana Shine as Barcelona win
The second half saw an intense midfield battle as both teams looked to take control. Arsenal found themselves on the defensive early in the half, struggling to find their rhythm. Bayern capitalized on the pressure when Gwinn floated in another pinpoint cross, and Eriksson rose above Stina Blackstenius to glance a header past Daphne van Domselaar. In a remarkable turn of events, Eriksson had scored twice in one game after an 18-month goal drought, putting Bayern ahead 2-1.
Arsenal Fight Back in Style
Despite falling behind, Arsenal were not about to back down. Just minutes after Bayern’s goal, Katie McCabe produced a sublime cross to the back post, where Russo executed a cushioned volley past Maria Mahmutovic. It was Russo’s sixth goal in four games, continuing her blistering form in the tournament. The crowd at Meadow Park erupted in celebration, sensing that Arsenal were far from finished.
With the momentum swinging in their favor, Arsenal pushed forward relentlessly. Frida Maanum came close to adding a third, only for Viggósdóttir to make a crucial block. The home side’s attacking persistence finally paid off in the closing minutes when Ingrid Engen’s handball in the penalty area led to a spot-kick. Mariona Caldentey stepped up and sent Mahmutovic the wrong way, calmly slotting the ball into the net to give Arsenal a dramatic 3-2 lead.
A Resurgent Arsenal Clinch Group C’s Top Spot
As the final whistle blew, Arsenal celebrated a hard-fought victory that completed their incredible turnaround in the Champions League group stage. Just over two months ago, the Gunners had suffered a heavy 5-2 defeat in Germany, but under the guidance of interim coach Renée Slegers, they responded with five consecutive wins to finish as Group C leaders.
The match showcased Arsenal’s growing belief and ability to perform under pressure. With their set-piece strength, defensive resilience, and attacking prowess on full display, they sent a statement to the rest of the competition. Meanwhile, Bayern, who had started the night with hopes of topping the group, had to settle for second place despite Eriksson’s heroics.
Looking Ahead
With their place in the knockout rounds secured, Arsenal will now shift focus to maintaining their winning momentum. Their resurgence in the Champions League has revitalized the team and their supporters, setting the stage for an exciting path forward. Bayern, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find solutions to tighten their defense ahead of the next stage of the tournament.
For Arsenal, this victory was more than just three points—it was a testament to their ability to rise against adversity and prove themselves among Europe’s elite.