The UEFA Women`s Champions League semifinals are upon us, featuring Arsenal against Lyon and Barcelona versus Chelsea. These top European clubs are vying for a spot in the final, set to take place in Lisbon, Portugal this May.
Arsenal and Lyon`s upcoming match marks their first semifinal clash since 2010-11. While familiar faces like Wendie Renard (Lyon) and Kim Little (Arsenal) remain, both teams have evolved significantly with new coaches and players.
Injuries could play a role, as Arsenal`s manager Renée Slegers and Lyon`s coach Joe Montemurro navigate player fitness after international duty. Arsenal`s goalkeeper Daphne Von Damselarr and Lyon`s captain Wendie Renard are managing injuries, but might still feature in the game.
Match Details and How to Watch
- Date: Saturday, April 19
- Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
- Live stream: DAZN
- Odds: Arsenal +263; Draw +259; Lyon -111
Women`s Champions League Semifinal Schedule
All times Eastern
Semifinals
Saturday April 19
Arsenal vs Lyon (7:30 a.m. ET)
Sunday April 20 (first leg)
Barcelona vs Chelsea (12 p.m. ET)
Sunday 27 April (second legs)
Chelsea vs. Barcelona (9 a.m. ET)
Lyon vs. Arsenal (12 p.m. ET)
Women`s Champions League final
May. 24 (Estádio José Alvalade — Lisbon, Portugal)
Winner of Arsenal-Lyon vs. Winner of Barcelona-Chelsea (12 p.m. ET)
Previous Arsenal vs. Lyon Encounters
2022-23 group stage:
- Lyon 1-5 Arsenal
- Arsenal 0-1 Lyon
In their recent Champions League group stage matches, Arsenal and Lyon split the wins. Frida Maanum, then with Lyon, scored against Arsenal in the first match, but Arsenal dominated the second leg with a 5-1 victory, ultimately winning the group.
Arsenal`s Perspective
Managers Renée Slegers and Joe Montemurro share mutual respect, having previously worked together at Arsenal. Slegers acknowledges Lyon`s strength and Montemurro`s influence as a mentor, emphasizing his effective coaching style.
Lyon`s Viewpoint
Joe Montemurro, with extensive experience in women`s football, recognizes Arsenal`s contribution to the sport, particularly in the UK and Europe. He anticipates a strong home atmosphere for Arsenal and stresses the importance of Lyon focusing on their game.
Projected Lineups
Arsenal lineup: Manuela Zinsberger; Emily Fox, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, Kate McCabe; Kim Little, Frida Maanum, Mariona Caldentey; Chloe Kelly, Caitlin Foord, Alessia Russo
Lyon lineup: Cristiane Endler; Elle Carpenter, Vanessa Gilles, Wendie Renard, Salma Bacha; Damaris Egurrola, Lindsey Heaps, Dzenifer Marozsan; Tabitha Chawinga, Kadidiatou Diani, Melchi Dumornay
American Players to Watch
Emily Fox, Arsenal: The USWNT defender has quickly become vital for Arsenal with her athleticism and defensive skills.
Lindsey Heaps, Lyon: The USWNT captain is crucial for Lyon`s midfield, offering control and contributing to both attack and defense.
Match Prediction
Arsenal`s home advantage will be significant, but Lyon`s strong attack is expected to secure a narrow win in the first leg. Prediction: Arsenal 1, Lyon 2
