In a highly anticipated clash, Arsenal will face Chelsea in the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals on March 24, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT, and fans are eager to see which team will take the upper hand in this knockout stage.
Both teams come into this match with impressive records. Arsenal has scored 20 goals in their last seven matches, conceding just one, showcasing their defensive strength and attacking prowess. In contrast, Chelsea has dominated the Women’s Super League (WSL) with six consecutive titles, but they trail Arsenal by just two points in the current league standings.
Historically, Arsenal remains the only British club to have ever won the Champions League, first achieving this feat in 2007. They added a second European title last season by defeating Barcelona, further solidifying their status in women’s football. Meanwhile, Chelsea, with their own impressive track record, has been a formidable force, winning six WSL titles in a row.
Arsenal’s recent form includes two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five meetings with Chelsea. The Gunners will be looking to Alessia Russo, the leading goalscorer in the 2025/26 Champions League with seven goals, to lead their attack. Chelsea’s Sam Kerr, who has netted 10 goals in all competitions this season, will be crucial for the Blues as they aim to advance.
Key moments
The match will be officiated by Romanian referee Ionela Peşu, adding an international flavor to this high-stakes encounter. Arsenal’s predicted lineup features van Domselaar, Fox, Wubben-Moy, Codina, McCabe, Little, Caldentey, Maanum, Smith, Blackstenius, and Russo. Chelsea’s expected starters include Hampton, Bronze, Buchanan, Girma, Baltimore, Walsh, Cuthbert, Rytting Kaneryd, James, Kaptein, and Thompson.
As the teams prepare for this crucial match, both coaches have shared their thoughts. Renée Slegers noted the short turnaround from their last game, emphasizing the need for quick preparation. Sonia Bompastor expressed confidence, stating, “We are playing a big game, a Champions League quarter-final. We will be really ambitious and maintain our really high goals.”
With both teams in strong form and a storied rivalry at play, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans can catch the action live on BBC Two and Disney+ in the UK. As the kickoff approaches, excitement builds for what could be a defining moment in this year’s Champions League campaign.
