Borehamwood, England – Arsenal Women secured a vital 3-0 victory against Real Madrid in their UEFA Women's Champions League clash held at Meadow Park on November 19, 2025. The win significantly boosts the Gunners' chances of advancing from the group stage after a shaky start to their title defense.

The defending champions, who had lost two of their first three group stage matches, entered the match with their campaign hanging in the balance. Coach Renée Slegers made three changes to the starting lineup following Sunday's 0-0 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, with Chloe Kelly, Olivia Smith, and Frida Maanum replacing Beth Mead, Caitlin Foord, and Stina Blackstenius.

Arsenal displayed a dominant performance against the Spanish side, with goals securing the much-needed win. The Gunners came into the match with 3 points from their first three games, while Real Madrid arrived with 7 points and an undefeated record.

Slegers emphasized the need for more creativity from her team ahead of the match, acknowledging the team's capabilities and strengths. She expressed hope that they could rectify their recent struggles, including a 3-2 defeat to Bayern Munich where they surrendered a two-goal lead.

Real Madrid made two changes to their lineup from their previous draw with Paris FC. Winger Athenea made her first start of the league phase, joining Linda Caicedo and Naomie Feller in the front three, while Alba Redondo, the competition's joint-top scorer, started on the bench. Yasmim regained her starting spot in defense, replacing Sara Holmgaard at left-back.

Arsenal's starting XI featured Daphne van Domselaar in goal, a defense of Emily Fox, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Steph Catley, and Katie McCabe. The midfield comprised Kyra Cooney-Cross, Victoria Pelova, and Frida Maanum, while the attack was led by Chloe Kelly, Olivia Smith, and Alessia Russo.

Real Madrid's lineup included Misa Rodriguez in goal, with a defense of Ona Batlle, Rocío Gálvez, Ivana Andrés, and Yasmim López. The midfield consisted of Maite Oroz, Teresa Abelleira, and Caroline Weir, while the forward line featured Athenea del Castillo, Linda Caicedo, and Naomie Feller.

Arsenal fans will be hoping that this victory marks a turning point in their Champions League campaign as they aim to defend their title. The Gunners have fond memories of playing Real Madrid, having overcome a two-goal deficit to win 3-0 in the quarter-finals last season. A repeat performance was a huge boost to their hopes of progressing in the competition.