Arsenal Women secured the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup on Sunday, defeating Brazil's SC Corinthians 3-2 after extra time at Emirates Stadium. Caitlin Foord scored the decisive goal in the 104th minute, following earlier strikes from Olivia Smith and Lotte Wubben-Moy. Corinthians twice equalised through Gabi Zanotti and a late penalty from Vic Albuquerque, forcing extra time in the rain-soaked final. Arsenal captain Kim Little was named player of the match.
The new intercontinental tournament, featuring club champions from six confederations, is scheduled annually between Women's Club World Cups. While Arsenal manager Renée Slegers noted players' desire to compete, some observers expressed "general bemusement" regarding the competition's timing within the busy football calendar. European teams, including Arsenal, benefited from being mid-season with full fitness, unlike some opponents in their off-season or pre-season. Arsenal received a $2.3 million prize for their victory, with Corinthians taking home $1 million as runner-up.
