The Arsenal women have enjoyed a return to form after their disappointing results in the FA Cup and of course the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final. An amazing turnaround in that tie, beating Real Madrid 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium.
Renee Slegers is enjoying a very good first part-season season in charge after replacing Jonas Eidevall earlier in the campaign. A 4-0 win over Crystal Palace at the weekend continued the run of form and now eyes are turning to that upcoming semi-final match with Lyon.
Chloe Kelly, who arrived in January, is now fully reintegrated into her old surroundings and played a key role in the wins over Madrid and Palace. She explained after the victory over the Eagles the importance of bouncing back from the cup disappointment.
"A very positive block," Kelly said. "I think the reaction from the group from the Real Madrid game, from the Liverpool defeat as well- I think it was a great reaction.
"I think you learn so much in those moments and I think it showed a great reaction from the whole team and staff and I think that’s great to see. You’re really challenged in times where it may be a defeat, so I think we’ve been at our best now towards the end of the block and hopefully, we can keep moving forwards and be at our best on to the end of the season."
Looking ahead, Arsenal will play their match with Lyon in the semi-finals at the Emirates Stadium looking to reach the final and make history. What a first season it could be for Slegers and of course what a return for Kelly is they could achieve the miracle of a Champions League victory.
Chelsea, Barcelona and of course the dangerous Lyon stand in their way of that ultimate goal. But with the form of players like Alessia Russo, they have the tools to give it absolutely everything.