London, Feb 2 (.) Arsenal Women claimed the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup with a dramatic 3–2 extra-time victory over Brazil’s SC Corinthians at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Substitute Caitlin Foord struck the decisive goal in the 104th minute, finishing off a rapid counterattack led by Frida Maanum to secure the intercontinental title for the London side.
Arsenal opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Olivia Smith, but Corinthians responded quickly as Gabi Zanotti drew level. Lotte Wubben-Moy restored Arsenal’s lead with a header after the break, only for Vic Albuquerque to force extra time by converting a penalty for the Brazilian champions.
“It’s nice to write our names in the history books,” Foord said after the match.
Arsenal captain Kim Little was named player of the match and said lifting the trophy at the club’s home ground made the achievement “extra special.”
Earlier in the day, Gotham FC of the United States finished third after defeating Morocco’s ASFAR 4–0 at the same venue.
The FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, which brings together club champions from all six confederations, will be held annually in the years between Women’s Club World Cups. Arsenal’s triumph also earned a women’s club football record prize purse of USD 2.3 million.
. VAN ARN