The reigning champions of the Women. �s Champions League, Arsenal, faced a formidable Lyon side on Sunday in a semi final clash that kept the football...
The reigning champions of the Women. �s Champions League, Arsenal, faced a formidable Lyon side on Sunday in a semi final clash that kept the football world on edge. For the Gunners, this was not merely a contest of tactics but a test of character, and they gave a good account of themselves against the French powerhouse. At the end of the day, the resilience of the Arsenal squad was the lion. �s share of the story, with the Nigerian international Olivia Smith proving to be a stalwart in midfield. Smith, whose journey from one club to another has often been a tale of transit, finally finds herself settled in North London.. �I do feel quite calm now, knowing that I have set down some roots here,. � she told GoalZaza in an exclusive chat.. �But at the end of the day, football is football and you never know what. �s next. So I. �m always on my toes but, right now, I. �m kind of laid back, just enjoying the time here in the present with Arsenal and looking forward to winning more silverware and growing as a player and a person.. � Her clarity of mind was evident as she admitted,. �I sorted out my mind:. �Come on, Gigi,. � I said to myself, and I gave myself strength:. �When the game is over you can stop playing football. Just take on this hour and a half and then say goodbye to it all.. �. � In the scheme of things, Smith. �s composure was the difference maker as Arsenal held Lyon to a tense draw, setting the stage for a decisive return leg. For Nigerian fans, watching Smith command the pitch in such a high stakes encounter was a moment of pride, reminiscent of the Super Eagles. � finest displays on the continent. Back home in Lagos, viewing centres from Surulere to Lekki erupted in cheers each time Smith touched the ball. Patrons at the popular Football Viewing Hub in Ikeja were on their feet, clapping and shouting,. �She dey carry the team!. � The atmosphere was electric, with fans calling for more Nigerian talents to follow her path. Even the powers that be at the Nigeria Football Federation must be taking note of how one of their own is flying the flag high in Europe. For the ordinary fan nursing a bottle of malt or a chilled drink, this was more than a game it was a statement that Nigerian football women can hold their own on the biggest stage.
