Tough Draw for the Gunners
Arsenal have been paired with European giants Lyon in the league phase of this season’s Women’s Champions League. Lyon, who have lifted the trophy a record eight times, will provide the sternest of tests as Jonas Eidevall’s side navigate a challenging section that also includes Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
New Format Brings Fresh Challenges
The competition has shifted to an 18-team league system, with each club playing six fixtures—three at home and three away. Arsenal’s additional opponents in this phase are Benfica, Dutch champions Twente, and Belgian side OH Leuven. Only the top four teams will progress automatically to the quarter-finals, while those finishing between fifth and twelfth must fight through play-offs.
High Stakes for Arsenal
With the new structure increasing the level of competition, Arsenal face a difficult path if they are to return to the latter stages of Europe’s top club tournament. Matches against Lyon and Bayern in particular will be key in determining their chances of securing a direct route into the last eight.
