Football Review | Arsenal 3 - 1 Chelsea

Were Chelsea unlucky not to get a result after a controversial decision?

Holders Arsenal took a significant step towards the semi-finals with victory in the first leg of their Women’s Champions League quarter-final against London rivals Chelsea.

Author | DJ

Stadium | Emirates Stadium

Renée Slegers’ side struck twice before the interval to seize control, before Alessia Russo added a late third to strengthen their advantage.

Chelsea threatened a response after the break when Lauren James produced an audacious lob from distance, having earlier struck the post along with team-mate Alyssa Thompson. Her inventive finish briefly raised hopes of a comeback, but it ultimately proved a consolation.

Arsenal had already laid the foundations in the first half through goals from Stina Blackstenius and Chloe Kelly, setting the tone for a composed and clinical display.

Wider analysis and wider context of the tie and the competition

The result leaves the Gunners firmly in command ahead of next Wednesday’s return leg at Stamford Bridge as they continue their defence of the European title.

Watch | Highlights courtesy of Arsenal YouTube channel

Chelsea, managed by Sonia Bompastor, were without several players through injury and international commitments linked to the Asian Cup, and their lack of depth was evident.

They will also feel aggrieved at a first-half decision that went against them, with Veerle Buurman adjudged to have fouled Laia Codina in the build-up to a disallowed goal, a call that appeared harsh on replay.

READ MORE | How Arsenal achieved the unthinkable last season

The Blues now face a demanding task on home soil against an Arsenal side in impressive form since the turn of the year.