Arsenal’s Champions League title defense came to an end as OL Lyonnes rallied from a first-leg deficit to secure a spot in the final with a 3-1 victory at Groupama Stadium on Saturday. Captain Wendie Renard converted a penalty twice and Kadidiatou Diani added a volley in the first half, giving the French team an edge in the tie. Arsenal responded with a goal from Alessia Russo.
In a strong performance during the second half, Olivia Smith hit the crossbar, but Jule Brand secured Lyon’s progression with a decisive goal just four minutes from the final whistle, sealing a 4-3 aggregate victory for the side that had led 2-0 following the first leg in London.
Photo by Pauline Figuet/Getty Images
Lyon almost took the lead within two minutes, but Ada Hegerberg misconnected with a promising ball from Diani after a strong run. Arsenal created an early opportunity when Kim Little’s corner was blocked by Selma Bacha, but luck was again on Lyon’s side.
Just seven minutes in, Lindsey Heaps scored from a Bacha corner, but the goal was ruled offside due to Ingrid Engen interfering with goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar.
Lyon took the lead in the 21st minute through a re-taken penalty after Melchie Dumornay was fouled by Lotte Wubben-Moy. Renard’s first attempt was saved by Van Domselaar, but it was later determined that the keeper had moved off her line. Renard maintained her composure and converted at the second attempt.
The French side extended their lead nine minutes before halftime with a stunning volley from Diani, who converted from a tight angle after a Brand corner.
After the break, Arsenal mounted a comeback, and a well-executed free-kick set up Russo for a shot that went across the goal. Stina Blackstenius struck the woodwork with a long-range effort, though the referee had already halted play.
Smith’s shot was on target as she poked the ball past Christiane Endler, but it also hit the post. Arsenal eventually found the net with 15 minutes remaining when Russo converted a cross from Smilla Holmberg, but they couldn’t maintain control of the match.
Brand clinched the victory, controlling a Dumornay cross before finishing past Van Domselaar. After a lengthy VAR review for offside, the goal was upheld, and Lyon secured a well-deserved triumph.