A Stunning Strike and a Dramatic Winner: Arsenal Women Edge Past Liverpool in a Thrilling Clash
In a match that had it all, Arsenal Women secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Barclays Women's Super League on Saturday, thanks to a sensational goal from Olivia Smith and a late winner by Stina Blackstenius. But here's where it gets controversial: was Smith's goal the best of the season so far? Let the debate begin!
First Half Fireworks
The game kicked off with Arsenal on the front foot. Frida Maanum’s early effort, slightly deflected, forced Faye Kirby into action, and Beth Mead’s inswinging free-kick soon followed, but Kirby was up to the task again. Mead’s subsequent corner found Lotte Wubben-Moy, whose header was well-placed but lacked the power to trouble the Liverpool keeper. And this is the part most people miss: Wubben-Moy’s quick thinking moments later set up Alessia Russo, who outmuscled Gemma Evans to deliver a cross that Mariona Caldentey flicked on, only for Kirby to make another crucial save.
Then came the moment of the match in the 16th minute. Smith, in a display of sheer brilliance, weaved through Liverpool’s midfield, shrugging off three challenges before unleashing a long-range strike that nestled into the bottom left corner for a 1-0 lead. It was a goal that left fans and pundits alike in awe. But with just under half an hour played, Russo’s cross narrowly missed the target, and Liverpool capitalized on their first real chance when Beata Olsson slotted home past debutant Anneke Borbe to level the score at 1-1.
Second Half Drama
Arsenal started the second half with intent. Mariona’s clever pass found Russo, who created space but fired wide. A cross from Hinds was met first-time by Russo, but Kirby’s quick reflexes denied her again. Mead’s 56th-minute corner found Russo at the far post, but her effort was blocked. With just over half an hour remaining, Arsenal made a triple substitution, bringing on Katie McCabe, Caitlin Foord, and Blackstenius for Hinds, Maanum, and Mead.
Smith continued to be a constant threat down the right flank, and her 66th-minute cross was cleared only as far as Foord, whose shot flew over the crossbar. Renée Slegers then introduced Kim Little, returning from injury, in place of Kyra Cooney-Cross. McCabe’s volley from Mariona’s cross went over the bar as Arsenal pushed for a second goal. Mariona, the orchestrator, played Blackstenius through on goal, but the offside flag cut short the celebration.
Blackstenius had a golden opportunity moments later, rounding the goalkeeper but seeing her shot blocked by Evans. However, in the 87th minute, she made no mistake, controlling a lofted pass from Fox before turning and smashing the ball into the top right corner with her left foot for a 2-1 lead. As seven minutes of added time ticked away, Smith received a standing ovation as she was substituted by Laia Codina, and Arsenal held on for three crucial points.
What’s Next?
The UEFA Women’s Champions League returns to Meadow Park on Tuesday, December 9, at 8 pm, as we host FC Twente. Don’t miss out—grab your tickets now! Get Tickets. After that, we’re off to Goodison Park for our first-ever WSL match against Everton on Saturday, December 13, at 12 pm.
Food for Thought
Smith’s goal was undoubtedly a contender for Goal of the Season, but was it the best we’ve seen so far? And could Blackstenius’ late winner be the turning point in Arsenal’s campaign? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your take on this thrilling match!
