Arsenal have secured their place in the final of the Conti League Cup after defeating Manchester City 1-0 in extra time.

BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 08: Laura Wienroither of Arsenal is challenged by Lauren Hemp of Manchester City during the FA Women's Continental Tyres League Cup Semi Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Meadow Park on February 08, 2023 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Laura Wienroither of Arsenal is challenged by Lauren Hemp of Manchester City during the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup Semi Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Meadow Park on February 08, 2023 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Stina Blackstenius, who came on as a second-half substitute, was the hero for the Gunners with a deflected effort from close range on Wednesday night.

The Swede’s goal ended City’s 16-game unbeaten run and sent Arsenal to their first final since 2020.

Blackstenius has had a difficult time in recent weeks with rumours of her being offered as part of Arsenal’s attempts to sign Alessia Russo, and a poor performance against West Ham.

However, her extra-time winner could be the moment that kickstarts her season again with the Gunners.

Despite going to extra time, the result was a fair reflection of the game, with neither side good enough to win in 90 minutes.

City dominated the tie for long periods but couldn’t convert their chances. Lauren Hemp was a standout player for City, giving Arsenal’s right side a tough time.

However, the team failed to take advantage of their dominance and eventually paid the price.

A lack of a clinical edge in front of goal was evident for Arsenal on the night, with numerous chances going begging. Manager Jonas Eidevall will be aware that his team will have to be more clinical if they want to win silverware this season.

The two teams will meet again in just three days in the WSL, where City will have home advantage.

Both are currently locked on 26 points, sitting third and fourth in the WSL table.

This result, and the next game, will have a major impact on the WSL title race, with both teams looking to keep pace with leaders Manchester United.

The final of the Conti League Cup will also be a major milestone for the winner, as they look to add another piece of silverware to their trophy cabinet.

The final, which will take place on March 5 at Crystal Palace, will be against either Chelsea or West Ham.