Arsenal Women produced a stunning performance in Lyon to overturn a first-leg deficit and dismantle the most successful club in UEFA Women’s Champions League history.
A 4-1 victory on the night saw the Gunners claim a 5-3 aggregate triumph and book a place in the final against Barcelona.
Entering the second leg trailing 2-1 after the first meeting at the Emirates, Arsenal needed an extraordinary display and delivered just that against a Lyon side that last conceded four goals in 2022 when Arsenal put five past them.
Arsenal came out firing from the very first whistle and struck inside five minutes when a calamitous own goal from Christiane Endler put Arsenal ahead from a corner. The momentum only built from there.
On the stroke of half-time, Mariona Caldentey doubled the lead with a spectacular strike from outside the box, assisted by Alessia Russo.
The second half brought no respite for Lyon.
Just 23 seconds after the restart, Alessia Russo added a third, finishing from a tight angle after a clever pass from Frida Maanum.
Caitlin Foord then made it four with a ruthless finish after a Lyon defender slipped. Arsenal were in dreamland.
Lyon managed a late consolation through Melchie Dumornay when Arsenal switched off, but the damage had long been done.
After the game, Arsenal captain Kim Little said, “It means a lot, and I think you can tell by the emotion.
“It’s just really special, excited, looking forward.
“We all can’t wait to represent this great club in the final.”
Asked if she thought Arsenal could beat Barcelona, who thrashed Chelsea, Little said, “I believe in this team. On our day, we can beat anyone.”
The defeat leaves Lyon stunned, their quest for a ninth Champions League crown ending in brutal fashion at home.
For Arsenal, the win secures their first final appearance since 2007, when they lifted the trophy.
They will now meet reigning champions Barcelona in Lisbon on Saturday, 24 May, with kick-off scheduled for 4.30pm.