The UEFA Women`s Champions League semifinal stage begins this Saturday, featuring four teams from three nations. Arsenal will play against Lyon, while Barcelona, the current champions, will host Chelsea on Sunday. These four teams will compete in a two-leg semifinal to earn a spot in the final held at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal, in May.
Arsenal and Lyon are meeting in the semifinal for the first time since the 2010-11 UWCL season. Lyon won that previous encounter 5-2 on aggregate. While some familiar faces remain, like Wendie Renard for Lyon and Kim Little for Arsenal, both teams have evolved significantly with new coaches and players as they prepare for this rematch.
Arsenal`s manager Renée Slegers and Lyon`s coach Joe Montemurro are dealing with player injuries before the semifinal, following knocks sustained during international matches. Arsenal`s goalkeeper Daphne Von Damselarr is nursing an ankle injury, and Lyon`s long-time captain Wendie Renard has a foot injury, though both might be available for selection.
Here’s a look at the key aspects and how to follow the match:
How to Watch Women`s Champions League
- Date: Saturday, April 19
- Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
- Live stream: DAZN
- Odds: Arsenal +263; Draw +259; Lyon -111
Women`s Champions League Schedule
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)
Last Meeting Between Arsenal vs. Lyon
2022-23 group stage:
- Lyon 1-5 Arsenal
- Arsenal 0-1 Lyon
These two teams last played in the UEFA Women`s Champions League group stage. They were in Group C together and split the wins in their two games. Frida Maanum, then with Lyon, scored against Arsenal in the first match. However, Arsenal defeated Lyon 5-1 in their second game and topped the group.
What Arsenal Are Saying
Both managers have long admired each other, having worked together at Arsenal when Montemurro managed from 2017 to 2021 and Slegers was part of the coaching team.
`They are a very strong opponent. We have huge respect for their team, their players, and their coach, Joe Montemurro. It will be a significant challenge, but we are eager for it. We want to take on this challenge,` said Slegers before the match.
`Joe Montemurro has been a mentor to me in the UEFA mentorship program. I learned from him to keep things simple and specific. He is very determined and hardworking but also brings a positive and sometimes playful approach. It`s been inspiring.`
What Lyon Are Saying
Montemurro has extensive experience in women`s football, managing Melbourne Victory, Melbourne City, Arsenal, Juventus, and now Lyon. He will be on the sidelines for this semifinal, facing Arsenal for the first time since the 2022-23 UWCL group stage when he was with Juventus.
`Arsenal deserves to be at the top of this competition. Their fanbase and their contribution to women`s football in the UK and Europe have been remarkable,` he stated.
`We anticipate a strong atmosphere, mostly in favor of Arsenal. We need to focus on our game and not get distracted. If Lyon plays to its potential and concentrates on the match, we will put on a good performance.`
Arsenal vs. Lyon Predicted 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
Americans to Watch
Emily Fox, Arsenal: The USWNT defender has quickly become important for Arsenal since joining last year. Her speed, accurate crosses, and defensive skills are key for Arsenal, and she will need to stop Lyon`s attacks while creating counter-attacks.
Lindsey Heaps, Lyon: The USWNT captain plays a crucial role in Lyon`s midfield leadership. Her ability to control the game`s pace and contribute offensively and defensively makes her a vital player for Lyon.
Arsenal vs. Lyon Prediction
Arsenal will have a significant home advantage at Emirates Stadium and strong motivation. However, Lyon`s strong attack will challenge Zinsberger and secure a slight lead for the second leg in France. Prediction: Arsenal 1, Lyon 2
Adrian Whitmore