The start of the match between Arsenal vs Chelsea was heavily promising. Alyssa Thompson is an American international and the first woman to score a goal in the WSL. She wowed the home crowd with her first assist. That assist led to a delicate chip over Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar in the 9th minute. Missing from close range and hitting the post and crossbar already, Gunners could not find an answer for the equalizer in the first half between Arsenal vs Chelsea.
The Breakthrough
The second leg’s characterization comes with a lot of dramatics and controversial refereeing. Arsenal believed they drew the match as Stina Blackstenius punched the ball into the net. But the referee Melissa Burgin ruled the goal offside claiming that she had use of her hand to handle the ball. A rule that struck players, staff and pundits dumbstruck.
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— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) November 9, 2025
Offside Resisted Victory
Arsenal eventually yielded results in the 87th minute. Substitute Frida Maanum brought in an impeccable cross to Alessia Russo. She volleyed home to send the home crowd into frenzies and scores remained at a draw of 1-1. The play was not finished as Maanum believed that she had won a sensational goal in 90th minute. However, was denied by an offside flag.
Post-Match Reactions and Implications
The controversial referee calls were also the most discussed issue at the end of the whistle. Moreover, Arsenal managers Renee Slegers said it was frustrating, claiming it was surprising to have the goal disallowed and she said she was currently pro- VAR introduction in the WSL. Goalscorer Alessia Russo shared the opinion of the team who stated that it was disappointing not to win three points. However, that they should have won.
For Chelsea, the draw would keep them unbeaten in league games at 33. This was a record they set themselves in the last 3 years, from 2019 to 2021. This result allows them to hold top spot in the 2023 WSL, while Arsenal is 5 points clear of a challenge.
As featured on GoonerNews.com