Arsenal demonstrated the lion's share of resilience as they came from a goal down to defeat Lyon 2 1 at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of their...
Arsenal demonstrated the lion's share of resilience as they came from a goal down to defeat Lyon 2 1 at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of their Women's Champions League semi final. The London side capitalised on two glaring defensive errors from the French visitors to turn the tie in their favour, leaving the travelling Lyon supporters shell shocked on a night of high drama. According to GoalZaza sources at the stadium, Lyon drew first blood through a well worked move that left the Arsenal defence flat footed. But the Gunners responded with clinical precision, pouncing on a misplaced pass in the Lyon half to draw level. The second goal arrived courtesy of another defensive lapse, with the Lyon backline failing to clear their lines. Arsenal. �s forwards, quick and decisive, made no mistake in punishing the error. In the scheme of things, this result gives Arsenal a slender advantage heading into the second leg in France. The team showed a formidable spirit, refusing to be rattled by the early setback. Their Nigerian international, who has been a stalwart in the midfield, gave a good account of herself throughout the contest, breaking up play and distributing the ball with composure. At the end of the day, the powers that be at the Emirates will be pleased with the character displayed. However, they know the job is only half done. Lyon remain a dangerous side, and Arsenal must be at their very best to secure a place in the final. The second leg promises to be a tense affair, and the Gunners will need every ounce of their fighting spirit to see it through. Back home in Nigeria, the viewing centres in Surulere and Yaba were buzzing with activity as fans watched the match on giant screens. Supporters in Arsenal jerseys shouted in delight when the equaliser went in, and there was a collective roar when the winning goal hit the back of the net. In the bars of Victoria Island, traders and office workers alike forgot their daily worries, caught up in the drama unfolding on the pitch. The atmosphere was electric, a true reflection of the passion Nigerians have for the beautiful game.
