Arsenal vs. Lyon: A High-Stakes UWCL Semifinal Showdown

The much-anticipated semifinal stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League (UWCL) kicks off this weekend, featuring four elite clubs from three different nations. Arsenal is set to take on Lyon on Saturday, while defending champions Barcelona will host Chelsea on Sunday. The series of matches will determine which teams advance to the final, scheduled for May at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal.

First Meeting in Over a Decade

This clash marks the first encounter between Arsenal and Lyon since the 2010-11 UWCL season, where Lyon emerged victorious with an aggregate score of 5-2. Both teams have undergone significant changes, with new head coaches and revamped rosters, making this match a fresh chapter in their storied rivalry. Familiar faces such as Wendie Renard and Kim Little, however, offer a sense of continuity amidst the shake-up.

Managerial Challenges and Player Injuries

As they gear up for the semifinal, both Arsenal’s Renée Slegers and Lyon’s Joe Montemurro face challenges due to injuries within their squads. Arsenal’s goalkeeper Daphne Von Damselarr is currently dealing with an ankle issue, while long-serving Lyon captain Wendie Renard is managing a foot injury, though she may still make the lineup.

Match Viewing Information

Date: Saturday, April 19
Time: 7:30 a.m. ET
Location: Emirates Stadium, London, England
Live Stream: DAZN
Odds: Arsenal +263; Draw +259; Lyon -111

Upcoming Semifinal Schedule

All times are Eastern.

• Saturday, April 19: Arsenal vs. Lyon at 7:30 a.m. ET
• Sunday, April 20: Barcelona vs. Chelsea at 12 p.m. ET
• Sunday, April 27: Second legs:
  • Chelsea vs. Barcelona at 9 a.m. ET
  • Lyon vs. Arsenal at 12 p.m. ET
• Women’s Champions League Final: May 24, Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal at 12 p.m. ET

Historical Context: Arsenal vs. Lyon

The last time these teams met was during the group stage of the 2022-23 UWCL season, with each securing a win in their encounters. In their first match, Lyon narrowly edged out Arsenal 1-0, but the Gunners responded emphatically with a 5-1 victory in the return match, showcasing their capability to perform strongly against top-tier competition.

Coaches’ Insights

Both managers express respect for each other’s teams and game styles. Slegers acknowledges the challenge Lyon presents, emphasizing, “Huge respect for them as a team and individual players and the coach, of course.” She adds that her previous experience under Montemurro at Arsenal has shaped her coaching philosophy.

Montemurro, who has led teams across several countries, commends Arsenal’s growth in women’s football, saying, “[Arsenal] deserve to be at the top end of this great competition.” He highlights the importance of his squad maintaining focus amidst the anticipated supportive atmosphere for Arsenal at their home ground.

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal: Manuela Zinsberger; Emily Fox, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, Kate McCabe; Kim Little, Frida Maanum, Mariona Caldentey; Chloe Kelly, Caitlin Foord, Alessia Russo

Lyon: Cristiane Endler; Elle Carpenter, Vanessa Gilles, Wendie Renard, Salma Bacha; Damaris Egurrola, Lindsey Heaps, Dzenifer Marozsan; Tabitha Chawinga, Kadidiatou Diani, Melchi Dumornay

Key Players to Watch

Emily Fox (Arsenal): The U.S. women’s national team defender has quickly adapted to Arsenal, making vital contributions in both defense and attack.

Lindsey Heaps (Lyon): The experienced USWNT captain plays a pivotal role in the midfield, facilitating both offensive and defensive strategies for her team.

Match Prediction

With a significant home advantage at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal is expected to be highly motivated. However, Lyon’s dynamic attacking unit poses a considerable challenge, which may give them a slight edge. The predicted outcome is: Arsenal 1, Lyon 2.

For Soccer Enthusiasts

Catch all the latest matches and updates on the CBS Sports Golazo Network, where you can enjoy a variety of shows and podcasts focusing on women’s soccer and other key competitions.

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