Gathering a result against Barcelona at Camp Nou is a considerable challenge for any team, especially for one currently facing struggles. In this context, Arsenal’s draw on Thursday night stands out as a notable accomplishment, enhancing their prospects of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Women’s Champions League.
Currently positioned sixth in the Women’s Super League, Arsenal finds their title aspirations dashed and is now focusing on achieving success in Europe. They have successfully gathered seven points from their first four matches, and despite the looming challenge of facing Lyon in London next week, the draw with Barcelona could provide a necessary boost.
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‘Very different to how we usually play’
Arsenal defender Steph Catley made five interceptions and nine clearances at Camp Nou to deny Barcelona [Getty Images]
While Arsenal’s performance may not have dazzled, it represented a gritty display that had been lacking this season. With manager Renee Slegers facing scrutiny and players under pressure to perform, the challenge posed by Barcelona’s powerful attack was critical.
Star players like Caroline Graham Hansen, Sydney Schertenleib, and top scorer Ewa Pajor typically instill fear in any competitor, even with three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati on the bench. Barcelona showcased their dominance against a struggling Arsenal, but the Gunners held strong.
Frida Maanum delivered an unexpected opening goal for Arsenal in the first half, managing to maintain their lead at halftime despite Barcelona’s 18 shots on goal. After the break, Barcelona equalized through Graham Hansen but could not capitalize further, as Arsenal demonstrated experience and resilience to secure a draw that ended Barcelona’s perfect record in the current Champions League.
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“I’m very pleased in general with the players and how they have gone about it; their preparation, ownership, and engagement. You know in these games it’s about the margins,” remarked Slegers. “The execution was so good. It is always going to be difficult against Barcelona because they are so good on the ball. It’s hard to defend against, but we did well. We knew there would be opportunities, and we played very differently to how we usually play. It’s a big boost for us as a team.”
Will this draw kickstart Arsenal’s season?
This season, Arsenal has faced criticism for their lack of effectiveness and difficulty in converting dominance into victories. However, in this match, it was Barcelona that appeared wasteful while Arsenal capitalized on their opportunities.
Barcelona, the defending champions, dominated with nearly 70% possession, launching 24 shots, making 51 touches in the opponent’s half, and earning 11 corners, yet they managed to score just one goal. Following recent remarks from Slegers about their tendency for “too many draws,” one can wonder if this particular draw signals that Arsenal’s true potential is simmering beneath a surface of low confidence and mixed form.
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Slegers added, “This is a very different game to play, but there are of course elements in the performance that we want – and need – to take forward. The team possesses the potential that needs to be represented in every single match. I would describe our performance with words like grit, resilience, clarity, discipline, communication, leadership, and bravery. There were many positive elements that we aim to build upon.”
Arsenal’s next match is crucial as they face the London City Lionesses on Sunday, which could influence their chances of qualifying for the next season’s Champions League, as they strive for a top three position in the WSL. Following that, they will host French giants Lyon next Thursday before concluding the league phase at Inter Milan in December.
