Foord scores extra-time winner as Arsenal beat Corinthians 3-2 at the Emirates

Arsenal secured a 3-2 extra-time win over Copa Libertadores champions Corinthians at the Emirates on Sunday night to be crowned winners of the inaugural Fifa Women’s Champions Cup. The Brazilian side twice came from behind to force another 30 minutes of football, but Arsenal benefited from being mid-season with players at full fitness, in contrast to Corinthians being in their pre-season and Concacaf winners Gotham FC being in their off-season, and from the decision to hold the tournament in London and play the final at the Emirates.

The opening goal came 15 minutes in after Corinthians goalkeeper Leticia parried Stina Blackstenius’s effort into the path of Olivia Smith, who scored on the half-volley. Corinthians equalised from a set piece when Gabi Zanotti headed in from Andressa’s corner. Lotte Wubben-Moy restored Arsenal’s lead with a header from Emily Fox’s cross, and Vic Albuquerque converted a late penalty after a video assistant review to force extra time.

In extra time Frida Maanum dispossessed Duda Sampaio and found substitute Caitlin Foord, who fired in the winner. There was pre-match bemusement at a competition sandwiched between critical WSL fixtures, and Arsenal’s 6-0 semi-final win over AS Far contrasted with Corinthians having beaten NWSL champions Gotham in their semi.

The build-up also included outrage at two Arsenal academy players who were spotted watching the Brazilian side train at Barnet’s stadium and were caught up in a spying storm.

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