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Arsenal women's player ratings vs Lyon: Gunners stumble in Champions League opener

Alessia Russo's early goal wasn't enough for Arsenal as Lyon secured a 2-1 victory to spoil the defending champions' start to the Champions League campaign. The Gunners face a winless run, raising concerns about regaining momentum and success in the season.

Arsenal women's player ratings vs Lyon: Gunners stumble in Champions League opener

Just six months after Arsenal stunned Lyon on their own patch in the Champions League semi-finals on their way to a second European triumph, the French giants got some revenge on Tuesday night as they spoiled the start of the Gunners' title defence with a 2-1 victory that, in truth, flattered the holders. Alessia Russo gave the hosts the lead with seven minutes on the clock but once Melchie Dumornay had quickly cancelled that out, it was all Lyon as two goals from the Haitian star secured all three points for the eight-time winners.Russo's early strike was a real moment of quality, too, both in the finish and the excellent footwork from Beth Mead that set it up. However, it seemed to serve to only poke the bear as Lyon battled back ferociously with some relentless play throughout the first half in particular. It was a gift that helped them draw level, as goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar passed the ball to Dumornay when playing out from the back under no pressure, but the 22-year-old's second was a stunner, one she sent flying into the top corner from 20 yards out.Lyon should've added to that lead multiple times but efforts either flew off target or were parried away by Van Domselaar, who did make amends for her earlier blunder with a terrific double stop just before the break especially. Arsenal couldn't make them rue that wastefulness, either, with chances few and far between bar Mariona Caldentey's well-saved effort a minute after Dumornay's second and Caitlin Foord's strike just wide in the final seconds.It means it's now four games without a winner for the Gunners, after draws against Manchester United and Aston Villa were followed up with defeat at Manchester City at the weekend and now this loss. It's the first time since January 2022 that they have endured such a barren run. Five months after winning the Champions League, head coach Renee Slegers isn't under any real pressure in terms of her job, it must be said, but she and her Arsenal team are in terms of regaining some momentum and getting their season back on track for success.GOAL rates Arsenal's players from Meadow Park...

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Player Ratings vs Lyon

Arsenal women faced a tough challenge against Lyon in their Champions League opener. Despite Alessia Russo's impressive early goal, the Gunners couldn't capitalize on their fast start. Lyon's Melchie Dumornay quickly equalized before securing the win with another goal. The Gunners' goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar had moments of brilliance, making key saves to keep the scoreline close.

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Analysis of the Match

The match saw Lyon dominate play after conceding the early goal, with relentless attacks and pressure on the Arsenal defense. While Russo's goal showcased moments of quality, Lyon's response demonstrated their experience and skill. The Gunners struggled to create clear scoring opportunities, with Lyon's defense standing strong. The result extends Arsenal's winless streak to four games, highlighting the need to regain momentum.

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Looking Ahead

Despite the recent setbacks, head coach Renee Slegers faces the challenge of reinvigorating her team and finding ways to return to winning form. With the Champions League title defense underway, Arsenal must regroup and refocus to pursue success in the season ahead. The upcoming matches will be crucial for the Gunners to bounce back and showcase their championship pedigree.

Published on October 7, 2025