Alessia Russo once again became Real Madrid’s thorn in the side as the Arsenal forward’s double gave the Gunners a 2-1 come-from-behind victory in the Women’s Champions League.
The England forward was on the scoresheet again last season, scoring twice in Arsenal’s quarter-final home win over the same opponents.
Arsenal were desperate for a result against a side previously unbeaten in Liga F, with their Champions League campaign in danger of disappearing, with their WSL title hopes coming true in recent weeks.
However, the Gunners looked set to go without a win in all competitions for the fourth time in a row when former midfielder Caroline Weir smartly volleyed home Real Madrid’s opener just before half-time.
Caroline Weir puts Real Madrid ahead
There was no immediate sign of Arsenal responding after the break, but Arsenal gradually began to show energy and intent, with Olivia Smith’s direct running appearing to inspire her teammates.
It was her opposite number, Chloe Kelly, whose cross was looped home by Russo and the Gunners striker once again proved unwieldy for the Spanish side.
Russo celebrates tying goal
Fourteen minutes later, substitute Beth Mead converted a corner kick six yards into the goal for a second goal that would have given Arsenal the lead on the night.
It was a nerve-wracking but well-deserved victory for Rene Slegers’ side, which proved enough to relieve some of the mounting pressure heading into the season and significantly boost their hopes of qualifying from the Champions League group stages.
Sleggers: “If you represent Arsenal you have to win every game”
Arsenal head coach Lenny Sleggers on Disney+:
“It wasn’t ideal to be down 1-0 from a set piece towards the end of the first half, but we were very calm.
“In the changing room the coaches, technical staff and players discussed the details. I’m really happy with how the players worked in the second half, because this is not an easy scenario with the pressure already on us ahead of this game.”
“Pressing is one of our big strengths. We tried to get them into areas and lure them into wide areas. Our nine and 10 guys were really impressive in that moment.”
Mariona Caldenti gets tackled by Sara Dabritz
“We have to find the right trigger, the right moment. We were very happy with the situation in the first half, it was more about doubling down in that moment in the second phase.”
“If you represent Arsenal, you have to aim to win every game.”
Russo: It’s a really important victory.
Arsenal goalscorer Alessia Russo on Disney+:
Russo (left) celebrates with Chloe Kelly
“It was a really important win. We probably didn’t get the result we wanted in the previous block, but it was important to come here and get a result tonight in the Champions League. I’m really happy.”
Weir: We needed a little more in the second half.
Real Madrid’s Caroline Weir now on Disney+:
“I’m glad we got the goal, but one goal really wasn’t enough. We needed a little more in the second half.
“We created a few more chances and Arsenal were always in the game, obviously they came out in the second half and scored twice.
“It’s a little disappointing. I think we played well, but tonight it wasn’t good enough. It’s always difficult to play against top teams.”
