Chelsea vs Arsenal: Viewing options in the UK via Disney+, match start time, and important players
The quarterfinal matchup in the Women’s Champions League between English rivals Chelsea and Arsenal is finely balanced as they approach the second leg.
The Gunners secured a 3-1 victory in the first leg at the Emirates, with goals from Stina Blackstenius, Chloe Kelly, and Alessia Russo. Nevertheless, Lauren James’ goal keeps the Blues in contention for a place in the semifinals.
This encounter marks the first time these teams have met in the Women’s Champions League, and the initial leg certainly met expectations.
Hereβs all the essential information ahead of the second leg.
Key Details:
Date: April 1
Time: 8 p.m. GMT
Venue: Stamford Bridge
How to watch:
<pAs with every UWCL match this season, this game will be streamed live on Disney+.
– UWCL talking points: How can VAR and referees enhance their performance? Can Madrid retain Caicedo?
– How Arsenal’s men’s and women’s squads can achieve Champions League milestones this season
– Chelsea in Women’s Champions League: Fixtures, results, news
What occurred in the first leg:
Chelsea struck the post twice within the opening 10 minutes but fell behind unexpectedly when Blackstenius scored with a header from a Katie McCabe free kick. Kelly quickly extended Arsenal’s lead with a shot from outside the penalty area.
The Blues believed they had equalized when Veerle Buurman scored from close range, but the goal was disallowed after the referee ruled a foul on Laia Codina.
James’ remarkable goal around the hour mark narrowed the deficit, but Russo’s strike reinstated the Gunners’ two-goal cushion.
play2:06Arsenal strengthen UWCL defense with quarterfinal first leg victory over Chelsea
Arsenal triumphs over Chelsea 3-1 in the Women’s Champions League quarterfinal first leg, thanks to goals from Stina Blackstenius, Chloe Kelly, and Alessia Russo.
Players to watch:
Russo’s goal in the first leg brought her total in the competition to eight. No English player has netted more goals in a single UWCL season than she has.
If her finish for Arsenal’s third goal did not demonstrate her confidence, then her first-half hat trick against Tottenham in the Women’s Super League (WSL) certainly did.
Chelsea’s chances of a comeback heavily depend on Lauren James. The England international scored what could be considered the goal of the tournament in the first leg, curling a shot from 30 yards with her left foot without any backlift.
The 24-year-old has overcome her earlier injury issues this season and seems to be reaching peak form at a crucial time for Chelsea.
Containing James will be vital for Arsenal in their quest for a semifinal position.
