Dumornays Return Ends…

LYON, France — The OL Lyonnes are on the path to reclaiming their place on the Champions League winners’ podium, thanks in no small part to Melchie Dumornay. The Haitian international’s return revitalized a previously lackluster Lyonnes team, transforming them into fierce contenders for the Champions League final.

After a prolonged VAR review lasting over three minutes for the pivotal goal scored by Jule Brand, Lyonnes erupted in celebration as they drew 3-1, advancing to the final with a 4-3 aggregate score. Dumornay’s expertly placed pass set up Brand for the decisive moment and allowed the team to secure their trip to Oslo.

Dumornay played a critical role throughout the match: winning the penalty that broke the deadlock, creating numerous chances that kept pressure on Arsenal early on, and assisting the winning goal.

Unlike the previous weekend, when Lyonnes displayed a lack of determination, Dumornay, along with Selma Bacha—who had almost missed the first leg—altered the team’s dynamics, forcing Arsenal to adjust their strategy.

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Olivia Smith was one of Arsenal’s standout players in the first leg, yet struggled against Bacha. In contrast, Dumornay was a catalyst for multiple Lyonnes attacks, driving Arsenal into tight situations that resulted in lost possession for the visitors. Her absence in the first leg was glaring when Lyonnes could only muster one shot on target.

Dumornay’s intelligence shone through, as she consistently outsmarted Arsenal’s defenders. Instead of forcing a difficult shot, she opted for a corner by playing the ball off Leah Williamson, creating scoring opportunities. This unpredictability, combined with her tactical awareness and skill, solidifies her status as one of the best players in the game today.

While Lyonnes had issues finishing, Arsenal appeared rattled—a stark contrast to their usual confidence. Their turmoil was evident when Lindsey Heaps‘ disallowed goal in the 7th minute left them unsettled, even though a potential goal was ruled out due to offside. This moment further sapped their resolve.

Lotte Wubben-Moy fouled Dumornay during her threatening run, compounding Arsenal’s woes. The drama continued as Wendie Renard had to retake her penalty kick after her initial shot was saved due to an early move by van Domselaar.

Renard, a dependable presence from the spot, scored on her second attempt, matching her for the most penalty goals in this Champions League season with four and extending her flawless record by converting her last ten spot-kicks.

Lyonnes quickly widened their lead, demonstrating their intent not to settle for a 1-0 advantage before the half. Kadidiatou Diani took advantage of Arsenal’s set-piece vulnerability, capitalizing on Brand’s precise cross with a well-placed header to conclude the first half’s scoring.

Lyonnes took advantage of Arsenal’s ongoing issues defending set pieces—having conceded 19 in the last two seasons across the Women’s Super League and Champions League, while Chelsea conceded only nine in the same period.

Despite this, Arsenal managed to pull level through Alessia Russo, who found her footing after an initially quiet game.

Ultimately, however, Dumornay’s brilliance prevailed as she delivered an exquisite pass to Brand, confirming Lyon’s place in the final in Oslo.

“What can I say? Melchie is an amazing player,” teammate Lily Yohannes remarked postgame. “You see it every time she’s on the pitch. She makes a difference.”

“She’s such a threat. Having her on the field makes my job easier, and I always want to find her whenever I can.”

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Heaps: I’m going to make my family watch Bayern vs Barcelona!

Lindsay Heaps expresses her determination to have her family watch the other UWCL semi-final after OL Lyonnes’ victory over Arsenal.

The young U.S. midfielder was instrumental in Lyonnes’ success that afternoon, showcasing her agility and skill with graceful movements around defenders. However, to credit Dumornay solely for the win would not fully represent the team’s collective mentality. The specter of another disheartening exit from the tournament like last season—a painful 4-1 defeat after securing a first leg advantage—was motivation for the entire squad.

No other team has achieved the kind of European dominance Lyonnes holds, with eight titles that are a testament to their efforts and talent. They rightfully earned their accolades through performance, and advancing to their historic 12th Champions League final is a step toward regaining their former glory.

Dumornay and her teammates now have the chance to reclaim a title they last won in 2022, following their loss in the 2024 final to Barcelona.

Lyonnes manager Jonatan Giraldez was in charge of the Catalans during that defeat, setting the stage for a potential rematch in the final. Barcelona will need to secure a win over Bayern Munich in their upcoming match after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Arsenal now faces a long flight back to London, where they may reflect on missed opportunities and decisions that led to their elimination and foiled their chances of becoming the first English team to reach consecutive European finals. However, as they pursue the Women’s Super League title, winning their two remaining games could reignite their championship hopes.

This hurtful defeat mirrors the previous season’s early elimination, but perhaps this setback will fuel a greater return next year.