Arsenal's return to Lisbon, the city of their historic Champions League triumph, was a stark contrast to their previous visit. The Gunners, once underdogs, now faced a different challenge: to revive their season after a sluggish start. But could they rise to the occasion?
The answer, at least for now, is a tentative yes. Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Benfica in the Women's Champions League (WCL), but it wasn't without its concerns. The team's star midfielder, Mariona Caldentey, admitted that almost every aspect of their game needs improvement. This statement is a bold reflection, especially after a win, but it hints at deeper issues.
The first half saw Arsenal dominate possession, yet they struggled to convert that into clear-cut chances. Both teams had five shots, but Benfica had the edge with two on target, while Arsenal had none. The second half brought more drama. A chaotic scramble in Benfica's box led to Beth Mead's opener, a slow-rolling effort that just crossed the line. And this is where it gets interesting...
The game lacked pace and directness, and injuries to key players Emily Fox and Steph Catley didn't help. But Arsenal held on, and Alessia Russo's late goal sealed the deal. The win was crucial, but the performance left much to be desired.
Benfica's manager, Ivan Baptista, praised his team's performance, despite the loss. He highlighted the fact that they kept the game open until the very end, a feat not many can claim against Arsenal. But was this a case of Benfica playing well or Arsenal underperforming?
The Gunners have had a mixed start to the season, dropping points in the WSL and suffering a defeat in their Champions League opener. The win in Lisbon might be a turning point, but it's clear that Arsenal have some soul-searching to do. Can they find the consistency and cutting edge that Caldentey spoke of?
The return to Lisbon, a city of past glories, has sparked a conversation about Arsenal's current form. And this is the part most people miss: is this a temporary blip or a sign of deeper issues? Only time will tell, but the debate is sure to continue.
