Arsenal Lose Two-Goal Lead to Draw 2-2 with Paris FC in Women’s Champions League

Arsenal looked set for a comfortable win against Paris FC in their Women’s Champions League match on Wednesday. The English side took a strong 2-0 lead thanks to goals from Alessia Russo and Georgia Stanway. Russo opened the scoring just before half-time, and Stanway doubled the lead early in the second half, both netting their first goals of the season.

However, Paris FC fought back. Their captain, Clara Mateo, pulled a goal back in the 72nd minute after a quick counterattack that left Arsenal’s defence exposed. Then, in the closing minutes, a controversial moment changed the game.

Arsenal goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez passed the ball to defender Leah Williamson to take a goal kick. But Williamson handled the ball, and the referee judged that play had restarted, awarding Paris FC a penalty. Maeline Mendy calmly converted the spot-kick in the 87th minute to level the match at 2-2.

The penalty decision stirred debate. Arsenal’s assistant coach, Aaron D’Antino, disputed the call, saying the ball was still rolling when it was passed to Williamson and that the goalkeeper was simply getting the ball ready. No official explanation from the referee or UEFA clarified the decision, and video review did not change the ruling.

Arsenal manager Renée Slegers did not attend the post-match press conference, with D’Antino speaking instead. The result leaves Arsenal with only five points from their first four league games this season, adding pressure as they look ahead to a tough match against Manchester City.

For Paris FC, the draw is a valuable point after a tough start to their Champions League campaign. The game revived memories of their last meeting in 2023/24, when Paris FC knocked Arsenal out on penalties after a 3-3 draw.