Arsenal’s UEFA Women’s Champions League run came to a staggering halt before it had even properly begun on Saturday following a 3-2 penalty shootout defeat against Paris FC in the first qualifying round of the competition.
The Gunners, who were semi-finalists in the competition last term, will not feature in the play-off round or the group stages this season. After beating Linkoping FC 3-0 earlier in the week, Division 1 Feminine side Paris FC stood in Arsenal’s way for a spot in the second qualifying round of the competition.
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After a rather subdued first half, a quick-fire double from the opponents put the WSL side’s hopes of progressing in serious doubt. Mathilde Bourdieu gave her side the lead just before the hour mark and extended their lead to 2-0 a minute after the game resumed following some sloppy play from Arsenal.
Jonas Eidevall rung in the changes and it was the substitute and new signing, Alessia Russo, who made a difference. The former Manchester United forward pulled a goal back with 10 minutes of normal time left to play before Jen Beattie also made an impact off the bench and leveled the scoreline deep into stoppage time.
Paris, though, once again took the lead in the second half of extra time through Louise Fleury, but a wonderful strike from Russo in the 116th minute took the game to penalties. After some clinical finishes from the spot, Frida Maanum was the first to see her penalty saved.
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Manuela Zinsberger offered her side another lifeline as she denied Daphne Corboz, but after being the hero during the match, Russo saw her spot-kick saved shortly after. Louna Ribadeira scored the winning penalty to send Paris deservedly through to the second qualifying round.
Arsenal’s focus will now shift to the return of the WSL with their opening game against Liverpool on October 1 set to take place at the Emirates. The Gunners will aim for further domestic success after they clinched the Conti Cup ahead of Chelsea last term.