Arsenal Set to Challenge Dominant Barcelona in Women's Champions League Final

Posted : 22 May 2025

Arsenal face a daunting challenge on Saturday as they take on reigning champions Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League final in Lisbon. Former Barcelona winger Mariona Caldentey, now a standout player for the Gunners, will lead her team against the dominant Catalan side, which has won three of the last four titles and is aiming for a fourth in five years.

The English club, under manager Renee Slegers, earned their place in the final through a dramatic comeback win over Real Madrid and a commanding 4-1 victory against Lyon, the tournament’s most decorated team.

Barcelona, who recently captured their sixth straight Liga F title, head into the final after dismantling Chelsea 8-2 on aggregate in the semifinals. The Spanish giants are eyeing another quadruple, having already claimed the Champions League in 2021, 2023, and 2024.

Despite losing key players like Caldentey, they still boast a star-studded squad, including Ballon d’Or winners Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas. Caldentey, now the Women’s Super League player of the season, has transformed Arsenal’s attack and remains grateful to her former club, expressing respect and restraint ahead of the final.

This match also marks a significant milestone for Barcelona, as it will be their 100th European fixture since their debut, which coincidentally was against Arsenal in 2011. Back then, Arsenal thrashed the Spanish side 7-0 on aggregate, with Kim Little on the scoresheet—a player who is still with the team today.

Since then, the tables have turned dramatically, with Barcelona rising to become Europe’s powerhouse. Under new coach Pere Romeu, who took over from Jonatan Giraldez, and with the addition of striker Ewa Pajor, they have continued to flourish.

Pajor, who has netted 43 goals in 45 appearances, hopes to fulfill her dream of winning the Champions League with Barcelona. Meanwhile, Claudia Pina has filled the void left by Caldentey, becoming the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals.

As Barcelona ride a nine-match winning streak in the Champions League, with 44 goals scored, they are just one shy of Wolfsburg’s single-season record. Arsenal, seeking only their second European title since 2007, will need every ounce of inspiration to deny Barcelona another historic triumph.

Arsenal Set to Challenge Dominant Barcelona in Women's Champions League Final

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