Arsenal Win Women’s Champions League, Deny Barcelona Three-Peat

Arsenal won the UEFA Women’s Champions League for the first time since 2007, defeating holders Barcelona 1-0 in Lisbon. Stina Blackstenius scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute, capitalizing on a reverse pass from Beth Mead, after a tactical substitution by head coach Renee Slegers. Arsenal’s defense held strong against a series of Barcelona attacks, including close efforts from Clàudia Pina and Aitana Bonmati, and a disallowed own goal by Irene Paredes due to offside. The victory denied Barcelona a third consecutive Champions League title and a potential quadruple, marking only their fourth loss of the season. Arsenal became the first English team to win the competition since its rebranding in 2009/10, and their journey included a record 15 matches after entering in the first round of qualifying. The triumph is seen as a testament to Arsenal's resilience, tactical discipline, and ability to upset Europe’s most dominant club.