Arsenal secured a 3-1 victory over Everton in their Women's Super League (WSL)match at Goodison Park. Alessia Russo scored twice for the Gunners, helping them move up to second place in the league standings.
The match began with a somewhat slow tempo, but Arsenal gradually found their rhythm after the first 20 minutes. Everton's goalkeeper, Courtney Brosnan, made several crucial saves to keep her team in the game. Arsenal's initial breakthrough came with a goal from Alessia Russo in the first half. However, Everton quickly responded, tying the score.
In the second half, Arsenal regained their lead around the hour mark, with an own goal from Everton's Maren Mjelde after pressure from Blackstenius. Russo then sealed the victory with her second goal in the 89th minute.
Arsenal made three changes to their starting lineup for the match. Kyra Cooney-Cross and Mariona Caldentey were brought into the midfield and Caitlin Foord started out wide. Emily Fox also returned to the side. Alessia Russo made her 100th Women's Super League appearance.
Arsenal's win was crucial as they aimed to bounce back from a previous disappointment against Liverpool. The victory also allowed them to close the gap on league leaders Manchester City.
Everton, who had previously struggled for form, recently ended Chelsea's 34-game unbeaten run with a 1-0 victory. However, they were unable to replicate that performance against Arsenal.
Going into the match, Arsenal had a strong record against Everton in the WSL. Everton's sole WSL victory against Arsenal was back in July 2011. Since then, Arsenal has dominated the fixture. Arsenal were unbeaten in their last five WSL games.
The match was played at Goodison Park, marking the first time Arsenal has played at this stadium in the Women's Super League. Everton Women have moved into Goodison Park this season, but also play matches at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Arsenal's coach, Renée Slegers, expressed gratitude for the fans' support throughout 2025. She acknowledged the fans who had travelled to support the team.
Brian Sørensen, the Everton coach, acknowledged the difficulty of the game against Arsenal, but remained positive.
