UPDATE: The stage is set for a thrilling Women’s Champions League quarter-final as five Australian stars prepare for a potential showdown between Sam Kerr’s Chelsea and Steph Catley’s Arsenal. This blockbuster clash, anticipated to be a London derby, was confirmed during the draw held in Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday.
Before this exciting matchup can unfold, Arsenal must first navigate a crucial playoff against Belgian side OH Leuven. The Gunners, led by Matildas stars Catley, Caitlin Foord, and Kyra Cooney-Cross, are expected to dominate following their convincing 3-0 victory against Leuven in the group stages earlier this week. The first leg of the playoff will take place in Belgium on February 11 or 12, with the return leg scheduled for the Emirates Stadium a week later.
If Arsenal triumphs, they will face Chelsea in the quarter-finals on March 24 or 25. Chelsea secured their direct passage to this stage after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolfsburg, thanks to Kerr’s game-winning header, marking her as the first Australian to score 20 Champions League goals.
The prospect of an all-Matildas quarter-final brings added excitement, as both teams are among the best in the Women’s Super League, with Arsenal ranked third and Chelsea in second place, both vying for the prestigious title once again.
In addition to the anticipated Arsenal vs. Chelsea clash, the tournament also features a competitive pathway for other teams. Barcelona, three-time champions, will meet the winner of the playoff between Real Madrid and Paris FC. Meanwhile, OL Lyonnes, with Matilda Teagan Micah as backup keeper, will face the winner of the playoff between Wolfsburg and Juventus. The final showdown is set to take place in the Norwegian capital of Oslo on May 23.
As excitement builds for these matchups, fans and players alike are eager to see how the Matildas will shine on this elite European stage. Keep an eye on these developments as the tournament progresses; the stakes are high, and the action promises to be electrifying.
