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Reigning Champions Arsenal Stumble in Champions League Opener
16 Oct
Summary
- Arsenal lost their opening Champions League match to Lyon
- Benfica looking to capitalize on Arsenal's shaky start
- Tight match expected due to Benfica's strong home record
On 2025-10-16T20:07:46+00:00, the reigning UEFA Women's Champions League titleholders, Arsenal, are set to face off against Benfica in Lisbon. The Gunners are looking to get their title defense back on track after a disappointing loss in their opening match against record-winners OL Lyonnes (Lyon).
Arsenal's campaign started on a sour note as they were defeated by Lyon. Alessio Russo had given the Gunners an early lead, but a brace from Melchie Dumornay saw the French giants turn the match around.
Now, Arsenal must regroup as they travel to take on a Benfica side that is also smarting from a narrow 2-1 defeat against Juventus in their previous Champions League outing. Lucia Alves had scored the opener for the Portuguese champions, but a late brace from Cecilia Salvai condemned them to a loss.
Benfica will be determined to make amends and prove their worth, especially at their home ground. Given Arsenal's recent struggles and Benfica's formidable record in Lisbon, this clash could be tighter than many had anticipated when the fixtures were announced.
