Arsenal pulled off a sensational upset on Saturday evening, defeating reigning champions Barcelona 1–0 in Lisbon to win the Women’s Champions League for the first time since 2007.
Stina Blackstenius was the hero for the Gunners, firing home in the 75th minute after latching onto a clever reverse pass from fellow substitute Beth Mead. Her low diagonal shot beat Catalina Coll in the Barcelona goal, sparking wild celebrations among the 5,000 travelling Arsenal supporters at the Estádio José Alvalade.
It was only Arsenal’s second appearance in a Women’s Champions League final, having won their maiden title 18 years ago. Under head coach Renée Slegers, the London side weathered relentless pressure from a Barcelona team aiming for their third consecutive European title and fourth in five years.
“Amazing,” said a tearful Alessia Russo, speaking to TNT Sports after the final whistle. “We had to suffer a lot. They’re a top side. We knew there would be moments we didn’t have the ball, but we believed our moment would come. Our squad just wanted it so badly.”
Barcelona dominated possession and created 20 attempts to Arsenal’s eight, but the Gunners’ resolute defence, led superbly by Leah Williamson, stood firm. Ona Batlle twice went close from range, and the Catalans forced 12 corners without reward. Arsenal’s defence held its shape, showing resilience and tactical discipline.
Arsenal thought they had taken the lead earlier in the first half when Frida Maanum broke free down the right and forced an apparent own goal from Irene Paredes, but a VAR review found Maanum offside in the build-up.
Despite being heavy underdogs, Arsenal had already shown their mettle in the semi-finals, overturning a 2–1 first-leg deficit against Lyon with a stunning 4–1 victory away in France.
“This was always going to be a game of momentum shifts,” said Slegers, her voice hoarse from celebrating. “We respect Barcelona, but we also know how good we are. The belief, the mentality, the effectiveness in our actions—it was incredible.”
Barcelona midfielder and Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí was left devastated. “I don’t believe it,” she told Catalan TV. “I just want to start the game again and do it differently. Personally, this hurts me a lot.”
After the final whistle, the Arsenal squad linked arms in front of their jubilant fans and sang along to Queen’s We Are the Champions. For captain Leah Williamson, the moment was particularly poignant—she was a child mascot at the club’s 2007 final.
“A lot of this team have been together for a long time,” she said. “To be able to do it on the biggest day—some people had the game of their lives. I’m so happy. I’m trying not to swear or cry.”
The victory crowns a remarkable European campaign for Arsenal and ends Barcelona’s dominant run in the competition. On a night few will forget, the Gunners proved that belief, unity, and resilience can overcome even the most formidable opponents.