Arsenal have made history by winning the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, edging Brazilian champions Corinthians 3–2 after extra time at the Emirates Stadium in London.

The new tournament, organised by FIFA, featured six continental champions from across the globe, all competing to crown the world’s best women’s club side. With the victory, Arsenal will receive a record-breaking £1.7 million in prize money; the largest single payout in women’s club football.

The Gunners started brightly, with star forward Olivia Smith opening the scoring in the 15th minute to give the Champions League holders an early lead. Corinthians responded quickly, however, as captain Gabi Zanotti equalised just six minutes later, sending the teams into half-time level.

Arsenal regained control in the second half when England international Lotte Wubben-Moy restored their lead, and it looked as though the North London side would see out a 2–1 win. But heartbreak struck late on as Corinthians converted a penalty in the 96th minute, forcing the match into extra time.

The decisive moment came in the 104th minute when substitute Caitlin Foord struck the winning goal, beating goalkeeper Lele at the near post to secure Arsenal’s historic triumph.

The match ended on a worrying note for Arsenal, with goalkeeper Anneke Borbe stretchered off after a collision with teammate Wubben-Moy in the closing moments of extra time.

The victory caps a remarkable season for Renée Slegers’ side, who add the Women’s Champions Cup to the Champions League trophy they lifted in May.

Arsenal captain Kim Little praised her team’s resilience after the match. “It’s great to get the win. We showed incredible character to concede so late and still come back in extra time. It’s a special experience being the first Champions Cup, and we’ll take a lot from this victory,” she said.

In addition to lifting a brand-new piece of silverware, Arsenal walk away as history-makers and the richest winners in women’s club football.

Source: BBC News