Did Alyssa Thompson’s decisive finish finally break Arsenal’s dominance? Chelsea clinched a 1‑0 victory, ending the Gunners’ unbeaten run.
Arsenal’s early pressure fizzled after Kim Little and Mariona Caldentey each rattled the post, then Thompson seized the moment at Stamford Bridge.
Keira Walsh unleashed a long‑range effort, saved by Anneke Borbé, but Thompson pounced on the rebound and fired home with authority.
The Gunners, fresh from two draws, improved after the break—Chloe Kelly’s angled shot was blocked, Alessia Russo’s attempt was cleared—but Chelsea held on for a third win.
Their unbeaten run, dating back to October 2025, collapsed after 20 games without defeat.
Chelsea now sit two points behind leaders Manchester City, while Arsenal trail by seven ahead of their October 4 clash with the champions.
Slegers ‘disappointed’ but remains confident in her squad despite the setbacks
“Very disappointed. We know it’s a tough game, Chelsea away. We performed well in the first half, dominated the physical battle and held the lead until their goal. The second half drained us.”
“We’ll work hard, reflect and move forward. I want to keep everything simple for the players because they thrive when they’re light. The squad holds immense quality.”
On what isn’t clicking for Arsenal currently: “It’s a mix of issues—technical and mental. We’re addressing it. I trust these players; goals and points will follow.”
On the title race: “We must earn the right to discuss it after dropping too many points. Focus on the next game and secure the points.”
Are Arsenal’s title hopes already in jeopardy?
For my money, Arsenal must rediscover their bite; the early season has left too much to be desired.
After four matches they’ve netted just two goals, and the one in the 1‑1 draw with Man United arrived in fifth‑minute stoppage time of the second half.
Now their unbeaten streak, which began on October 12 last year, has been snapped by Chelsea.
The defeat leaves the Gunners seven points behind leaders Manchester City.
Coach René Slegers, speaking after full‑time, said she wants to “take the pressure off” her players.
“I trust these players. Goals will come and points will follow,” she affirmed.
“We have to earn the right again to talk about the title race because we’ve lost too many points,” she added.
With a trip to City on October 4, the upcoming week could prove pivotal for the north London side.