Stina Blackstenius Seals Historic Champions League Victory for Arsenal Over Barcelona

Arsenal win Women’s Champions League in final glory and dethrone Barcelona

Arsenal claimed their first UEFA Women’s Champions League title in 18 years as substitute Stina Blackstenius scored the decisive goal in a thrilling final against Barcelona in Lisbon. The Swedish striker calmly slotted home a low shot past Cata Coll from ten yards out after a perfectly weighted pass from Beth Mead, also off the bench.

Despite being underdogs against a Barcelona side that had won three of the past four European titles and featured two-time Ballon d’Or winners Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas, Arsenal delivered a resilient and tactically disciplined performance to secure a stunning 1–0 victory.

Stina Blackstenius watches her shot go past Barcelona’s Cata Coll for what proved the only goal of the Women’s Champions League final

The result reaffirmed Arsenal’s status among the elite of European women’s football, echoing the glory days of 2007, when they last lifted the trophy. Barcelona, with their array of attacking talent, struggled to impose themselves in a frenetic final, dominated by Arsenal’s grit and tactical execution.

An early own goal by Irene Paredes was ruled out following a VAR check for offside in the buildup. Arsenal created several more chances through Frida Maanum and captain Kim Little, but failed to convert. Barcelona responded after the break with efforts from Ewa Pajor and Ona Batlle, including a shot deflected onto the crossbar, but Arsenal’s defense remained unbroken.

Chloe Kelly holds off Caroline Graham Hansen and Ona Batlle

The final marked a crowning achievement for manager Renee Slegers, who took over mid-season following the resignation of Jonas Eidevall amid fan unrest. Initially named interim coach, Slegers was made permanent head coach in January and has since transformed the squad into European champions. Arsenal became the first club to win the Women’s Champions League starting from the first round of qualifying.

Slegers guided her team through a challenging group stage and tough knockout rounds, including comeback victories against Real Madrid and eight-time champions Lyon. The triumph over Barcelona capped off a remarkable journey defined by perseverance and belief.

Stina Blackstenius scored seven minutes after coming on as a substitute

The atmosphere in Lisbon was electric, with thousands of Barcelona fans in full voice hours before kick-off. Arsenal supporters filled Pink Street and traveled in large numbers, proudly donning jerseys of stars like Leah Williamson, Alessia Russo, and Kim Little.

Club co-owner Josh Kroenke was in attendance alongside senior executives, while members of the 2007 title-winning squad joined Slegers and the team for a pre-match lunch earlier in the week, symbolizing the passing of the torch.

Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas said Barcelona were the favourites going into Saturday's final

Blackstenius, a player known for inconsistency, once again delivered when it mattered most. Having already scored decisive goals in previous domestic competitions, her finish in Lisbon secured the most important goal of her Arsenal career. After the final whistle, the pitch was a scene of jubilation and raw emotion as players, many in tears, celebrated with their 4,500 traveling fans.

Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí was visibly heartbroken, comparing the defeat to their 2022 final loss to Lyon. “I just want to start the game again and do it differently. But this is football,” she said. Alexia Putellas added that the team "did not find our level" and praised Arsenal’s setup, expressing sorrow for their supporters.

Arsenal’s journey to the top of European football was anything but easy, but it was defined by character, unity, and strategic brilliance. The night in Lisbon will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in the club’s illustrious history—and perhaps just the beginning under Renee Slegers’ leadership.