From the Guardian · · 2m
Caldentey's penalty saves Arsenal from embarrassment
Arsenal scrapes past Danish minnows HB Køge with a 93rd-minute penalty, but their profligacy in front of goal reveals deeper problems.
In brief
Arsenal scrapes past Danish minnows HB Køge with a 93rd-minute penalty, but their profligacy in front of goal reveals deeper problems. Arsenal's inability to finish chances despite dominating possession suggests a mental block rather than a talent shortage, and manager Renée Slegers must find solutions before tougher…
Caldentey rescues Arsenal late
Mariona Caldentey's 93rd-minute penalty gave Arsenal a 1-0 win over HB Køge in their Women's Champions League opener. The goal came after Yukina Sakabe fouled Selina Cerci in the box.
Relief mixed with deeper concerns
The win brought relief to Arsenal fans, but manager Renée Slegers' expression told the real story. Arsenal created numerous chances but couldn't finish them, raising questions about their form.
Slegers: mentality and resilience won
Manager Renée Slegers said the victory was about mentality and resilience rather than good football. She acknowledged the squad's talent but admitted the football didn't deliver the win.
“It was a mentality and resilience win today. The football didn't give us the win.”
Arsenal's finishing problem runs deep
Arsenal's inability to score despite dominating suggests a mental block rather than a talent issue. Køge's goalkeeper Alberte Vingum defended excellently, but the real problem appears to be Arsenal's mentality and ruthlessness.
Slegers focuses on simplicity
The manager plans to address the issue by making things simple and easy to execute. She also wants to involve players more, asking for their input on what they see and feel on the pitch.
Eight changes ahead of Chelsea
Arsenal made eight changes to the team that drew with Manchester United on Saturday, with Sunday's trip to Chelsea looming. The hope was that facing Danish opposition would break their scoring drought.
Chloe Kelly's goal ruled out
In the 13th minute, Chloe Kelly scored a fine volley after a slick Arsenal move, but the video assistant referee disallowed it for offside. Stina Blackstenius was ruled to be in Vingum's line of sight.
Køge's celebration strategy worked
HB Køge manager Kristian Mørch instructed his team to celebrate every positive action, even goalkeeper saves, to keep morale high and intimidate Arsenal. The tactic clearly annoyed some Arsenal players.
“We agreed before the game that we're going to celebrate every possible win.”
Arsenal's poor league form continues
Arsenal has just five points from three Women's Super League games after consecutive draws against Crystal Palace and Manchester United. The Champions League opener did little to ease concerns about their season.
In short
Arsenal's inability to finish chances despite dominating possession suggests a mental block rather than a talent shortage, and manager Renée Slegers must find solutions before tougher Champions League tests arrive.
