Arsenal Women stand on the brink of making history as they prepare to face Brazilian champions Corinthians in Sunday's inaugural Women's Champions Cup final at the Emirates Stadium. The European champions secured their place in the landmark showdown with a commanding 6-0 victory over Moroccan side AS Far at Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium, setting up a fascinating cross-continental clash against South America's finest.
Trailblazing Moments and Global Growth
Manager Renée Slegers has highlighted the tournament's significance in showcasing the global development of women's football, particularly praising the impact of AS Far's hijab-wearing defender Nouhaila Benzina during their semi-final encounter. "The strength of football in society is that football is for everyone," Slegers emphasised. "It's really good that we have role models in all possible ways to show that football is for everyone. That just makes me happy."
The Arsenal boss reflected on the broader importance of the competition, stating: "Norms have to be broken to get where we want women's football to go. That's what they're doing. They're trailblazers and they're doing things that are bigger than what they maybe know they're doing."
Respect for the Unknown Opposition
While Arsenal dominated their semi-final against African champions AS Far - marking the first competitive meeting between European and African women's club teams - Corinthians represent another step into the unknown for the English side. The Brazilian champions earned their place in the final with a spirited semi-final victory over Gotham FC, showcasing passionate support that created an electric atmosphere at Brentford.
"We are very proud to be in this tournament, we are very proud to be the champions of Europe and we look forward to playing against the champions of South America," Slegers declared. "We are very respectful of the opposition, we are very humble also because of the unknown. So, we go into this game believing in ourselves and knowing how good we are."
Atmospheric Emirates Showdown Expected
The final promises to be a spectacular occasion, with both sets of supporters expected to create a vibrant atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium. Slegers acknowledged the impressive support Corinthians brought to their semi-final, noting: "They're going to bring the intensity together with their fans. They were amazing watching the game against Gotham with the energy they brought. Our fans are going to bring energy and the intensity as well. It will be a great football event."
The Arsenal manager also provided positive updates on squad availability, confirming she has the same selection options as for the AS Far match and expressing particular pleasure at having Chloe Kelly back in contention. "Leah Williamson is progressing really well," Slegers added, while emphasising the importance of player welfare amidst a demanding schedule.
Warning Against Complacency
Despite Arsenal's status as European champions and home advantage, Slegers has warned her players against any complacency when facing the Brazilian champions. "The team's in a good place," she stated. "We have to work really hard to keep on delivering and sustain our levels. So we can't be complacent about anything, especially not going into this final because Corinthians are a very good team."
The manager also reflected on the tactical evolution visible in global women's football, observing: "Football is growing everywhere around the world. AS Far is a good example of that; another continent, another culture, but there's so many things to the way they play and it's at such a high level and I think tactically you see that there's a trend globally."
Historic Opportunity for Arsenal
Sunday's final represents a chance for Arsenal to add another prestigious trophy to their collection and become the first-ever global club champions in women's football. "We're very excited about the final, we look forward to it and it's a special moment for us, for the players, for the club," Slegers said, capturing the significance of the occasion.
As women's football continues to break new ground and expand its global footprint, this inaugural Champions Cup final between European and South American champions stands as a landmark moment in the sport's development, showcasing diversity, quality and passion on an international stage.
