Arsenal reignited their Women’s Super League (WSL) title challenge with a dominant 5-1 victory over Leicester City, spearheaded by an electric performance from Australian forward Caitlin Foord. Her two goals and an assist helped the Gunners move to within three points of league leaders Chelsea with just three matches remaining.
Arsenal manager Renee Slegers made five changes to her line-up following the 4-0 win over Crystal Palace, with key players like Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly, and Daphne van Domselaar missing due to injury. But their absence did little to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm as Foord led a clinical attacking display at Meadow Park.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
It took just nine minutes for Foord to make her mark. Norwegian midfielder Frida Maanum delivered a pinpoint cross to the back post, where Foord was waiting to calmly slot home her 10th goal of the season across all competitions.
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Ten minutes later, Foord was involved again. Collecting a through ball, she expertly squared it for Stina Blackstenius, who tapped in from close range to double the Gunners’ advantage. It was the kind of intelligent play and vision that Arsenal fans have come to expect from the Australian international.
A Second for Foord, a Statement from Arsenal
Just before half-time, Foord added her second — and Arsenal’s third — in stunning fashion. Played in by Mariona Caldentey, she executed a slick one-two with Blackstenius at the edge of the box and fired a low shot that deflected off a Leicester defender. The touch wrong-footed goalkeeper Janina Leitzig, allowing the ball to roll into the net.
The brace took Foord’s WSL tally to five goals this season and further underlined her value to Arsenal’s frontline.
Pelova Marks Return, Leicester Pull One Back
The hosts showed no signs of slowing down after the break. Victoria Pelova, returning from an ACL injury, made a dream comeback by netting Arsenal’s fifth — her first goal since the long layoff. It was a symbolic moment, not just for Pelova but for a team building confidence ahead of a busy fixture list.
Leicester City did manage a consolation goal through Yuka Momiki, who capitalised on a rare lapse in Arsenal’s defence. However, the visitors were comprehensively outclassed in every department.
Manager Reaction: Slegers Focused on Title Push
Speaking after the match, Slegers praised her team’s focus and reiterated their ambition to push the title race to the wire.
“We know there were four games left of the WSL — now there are three. We want to win four out of four, so this result was important,” said the Arsenal boss. “We did a lot of things really well today.”
With Chelsea still leading the standings, Arsenal will need to maintain their form and hope for slip-ups from their London rivals if they are to lift the trophy.
Champions League on the Horizon
Next up, Arsenal host the first leg of their UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal against French giants Lyon. The tie will be held at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, where Arsenal have been nearly invincible of late — winning their last eight home games in all competitions with a staggering aggregate score of 31-2.
Foord, Pelova, and Blackstenius’s attacking form will be critical against Lyon, who boast one of Europe’s most formidable defences.
Australian Stars Shining in Europe
Caitlin Foord’s performance is another highlight in a string of strong showings by Matildas abroad. With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, her form is an encouraging sign for Australian coach Tony Gustavsson. The same can be said for Steph Catley and Kyra Cooney-Cross, both of whom continue to contribute steadily for the North London side.
Final Word
Arsenal’s dismantling of Leicester was a clear statement: they’re not done yet. With a red-hot Caitlin Foord leading the charge, they’re ready to challenge on two fronts — at home and in Europe.
Next WSL Fixture:
Arsenal vs. Manchester United — April 21
Next Champions League Fixture:
Arsenal vs. Lyon (semifinal 1st leg) — April 19
