UEFA Women's Champions League When Arsenal Women host Olympique Lyonnais Féminin on October 7, fans of women’s football can expect a spectacle worthy of a final. This match will open the new Champions League season for both sides, and the stakes go far beyond the first points in the group stage. It will be a test of strength, ambition, and prestige.
Arsenal started their league campaign in style, first with a convincing 4–1 win over London City Lionesses, then an impressive 5–1 against West Ham. Supporters began to believe that defending the title won in spring was entirely realistic. However, momentum soon stalled. Draws with Manchester United and Aston Villa, followed by a 2–3 loss to Manchester City, exposed some weaknesses in the squad. As it stands, Arsenal sit fifth in the WSL table with eight points, far from panic territory, but certainly below their own expectations.
On the other side of the form spectrum is Lyon. After four rounds in Ligue 1, the French side boast a perfect record and an astonishing goal tally – nineteen in total. In their last two matches, they demolished Lens 8–1 and PSG 6–1, sending a clear message to the rest of Europe: OL’s attacking machine is running at full throttle.
Historically, this rivalry has belonged to Lyon. The French dominated the head-to-head meetings, knocking Arsenal out of the Champions League and showcasing the difference in class. But the 2024/25 season marked a turning point. Arsenal achieved the impossible, winning the semifinal return leg in Lyon 4–1. That victory paved their way to the final, where they lifted the trophy. Now, the upcoming encounter carries extra spice, Lyon arrive seeking to reclaim their lost pride, while Arsenal aim to prove that triumph was no one-off.
Looking at the line-ups, world-class players will be on show. Leading Arsenal’s attack are Alessia Russo, Stina Blackstenius, and Frida Leonhardsen Maanum. Between them, they already have seven goals and three assists this season, and their chemistry is one of the team’s biggest strengths.
Lyon, however, are no less dangerous. Ada Hegerberg has one goal and two assists, while Marie-Antoinette Katoto has added two goals and one assist. In midfield, the American trio of Lindsey Heaps (2 goals), Korbin Shrader (3 goals and an assist), and Lily Yohannes (1 goal, 1 assist) are playing an increasingly influential role. They bring dynamism, physical power, and creativity to the side. And let’s not forget the young French talents who both scored hat-tricks in the previous game – Vicki Becho (22) and Liana Joseph (19). They, too, could be decisive in this showdown.
In terms of current form, Lyon seem to have the edge, a confident, free-scoring team brimming with self-belief. Arsenal, meanwhile, are going through a minor dip, though their squad remains deep and packed with quality, blending experience with youth. What’s more, the Gunners have fresh memories of beating Lyon and the belief that they can do it again.
This match promises to be a clash of styles, histories, and mentalities. Lyon will seek revenge for their semifinal defeat, while Arsenal will play with the ambition to prove that last season was the beginning of a new era. One thing is certain, right from the opening round of the group stage, fans will be treated to a showdown that can rightfully be called one of the football highlights of the autumn.
