Arsenal batter Chelsea in front of record WSL crowd of 59,042 at Emirates
Arsenal 4-1 Chelsea
In front of a record crowd at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal delivered a remarkable performance, securing a convincing victory over reigning champions Chelsea and making their WSL title defence a serious challenge.
With both teams now level on points, Chelsea’s first league defeat of the season unfolded in front of 59,042 spectators, marking a new WSL record.
The Gunners took an early lead as Beth Mead found the net after eight minutes, but Chelsea responded with an equaliser from Johanna Rytting-Kaneryd against the run of play. Instead of dampening Arsenal’s spirits, Chelsea’s goal fueled the Gunners’ dominance, with Amanda Ilestedt capitalising on a goalkeeper error for the second goal. A composed finish by Alessia Russo made it 3-1 at halftime.
Despite Chelsea boss Emma Hayes’ halftime adjustments, including three substitutions and a formation change, Arsenal maintained control, and Russo sealed the victory with a fourth goal from the penalty spot, ensuring the three points stayed in north London.
- Liverpool 4-3 Chelsea: Chelsea’s title race is done – Hayes
- UWCL & WSL: the weekend’s football results in review
- WSL fixtures this weekend & UWCL first leg fixtures – Saturday 20/04 & Sunday 21/04
- Women’s FA Cup & WSL roundup: Chelsea out of FA Cup & Arsenal thrash Luton