A dream turned into a nightmare for Arsenal on Sunday as their Women’s Super League title aspirations suffered a potentially fatal blow with a shocking 2-1 defeat away to West Ham.
Despite dominating the first half and carving out numerous chances, the Gunners were left to rue their profligacy as a determined Hammers side staged a remarkable comeback in the second half.
- Arsenal’s profligacy in the first half proved costly.
- Controversial penalty decision turns the tide in West Ham’s favour.
- Cissoko’s wonder strike was the decisive moment.
- The result throws the WSL title race wide open.
This marks the first time Arsenal have ever lost to West Ham in the WSL, leaving them three points behind leaders Chelsea, who also have a game in hand.
Arsenal’s dream of lifting the Women’s Super League trophy suffered a potentially fatal blow as they succumbed to a shocking 2-1 defeat away to West Ham at the Chigwell Construction Stadium on Sunday.
From the outset, the visitors dictated the tempo, with Vivianne Miedema pulling the strings in midfield and linking up effectively with Lia Wälti and Malin Pelova. Beth Mead and Caitlin Foord provided width on the flanks, constantly testing the West Ham backline with their pace and trickery.
The first clear-cut opportunity fell to Miedema herself in the 28th minute. The Dutch striker raced past goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold but was denied by a last-ditch tackle from Risa Shimizu. Minutes later, Miedema rattled the crossbar with a powerful shot, sending shivers down the spines of the home faithful.
Arsenal’s persistence finally paid off in the 42nd minute when Steph Catley whipped in a perfect corner and Alessia Russo, lurking at the back post, met it with a powerful header that flew past Arnold. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations amongst the travelling Arsenal fans, who had been vocal throughout the first half.
Headed 🏠 at the back stick by @ArsenalWFC's @alessiarusso7! #BarclaysWSL pic.twitter.com/lk8wkHq2f8
— Barclays Women's Super League (@BarclaysWSL) February 4, 2024
However, West Ham refused to roll over. Just three minutes into the second half, a controversial penalty decision awarded for a foul on Rachel Hayashi was converted by Vivianne Asseyi, restoring parity for the Hammers.
‼️ Penalty ‼️
What do you think, is this foul inside or outside the area?#WSL #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/z3PEJ6a2ru
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) February 4, 2024
The goal visibly rattled Arsenal, and West Ham capitalised on their newfound confidence. In the 60th minute, Hawa Cissoko unleashed a thunderous shot from distance that nestled in the top corner, leaving Manuela Zinsberger stranded and handing the hosts an unlikely lead.
Jonas Eidevall responded with a triple substitution, throwing on Stina Blackstenius, Chloe Lacasse, and Frida Maanum in search of an equaliser. However, despite late pressure, Arsenal struggled to break down a resolute West Ham defence. Lacasse had a decent chance with a powerful shot over the bar, while Maanum saw an effort sail wide after Arnold spilled a free-kick.
As the final whistle blew, the Chigwell Construction Stadium erupted in celebration as West Ham secured a famous victory. The defeat now leaves Arsenal with a mountain to climb in their title quest, while the Hammers celebrate a crucial three points in their fight for survival.