Arsenal Women showcased their dominance with a resounding 6-0 victory over Rangers in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifier at Meadow Park on September 4, 2024. This emphatic win sets up a clash with Rosenborg in the next round.
The Gunners started strong, controlling possession and creating numerous chances. It took just 16 minutes for Arsenal to break the deadlock. New signing Mariona Caldentey delivered a precise cross from the left wing, finding Caitlin Foord at the back post, who headed the ball into the net.
Despite continuous pressure and several close attempts, Arsenal went into halftime with a 1-0 lead, as Rangers managed to keep the scoreline respectable.
The second half saw Arsenal’s relentless attack pay off. In the 59th minute, Kim Little won the ball back and played a perfect through ball to Foord, who calmly slotted it past the Rangers keeper for her second goal. Just a minute later, Alessia Russo made it 3-0 with a clinical finish following some slick passing from the kickoff.
Arsenal continued to dominate, and Foord completed her hat-trick in the 69th minute with a superb volley from a Katie McCabe cross. The Gunners weren’t done yet. In the 84th minute, McCabe was fouled inside the box, and Little converted the resulting penalty to make it 5-0.
Foord capped off a memorable night by scoring her fourth goal in the 90th minute, pouncing on a rebound from a saved shot by Lina Kafaji.
This comprehensive victory not only highlights Arsenal’s attacking prowess but also sends a strong message to their future opponents. With such a dominant performance, the Gunners are well on their way to making a significant impact in this season’s Women’s Champions League.
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