Arsenal Women made history by winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League, beating Barcelona in a thrilling final. It was a proud moment for the club, especially since the men’s team has never won the same title.

Captain Leah Williamson led the defense with confidence, keeping Barcelona’s star striker Ewa Pajor quiet all game. Pajor has now lost all five Champions League finals she’s played in. Arsenal’s defense also managed to silence Barcelona legend Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Barcelona didn’t look like the dominant team that won four trophies last season. They struggled in the first half, with Arsenal showing more energy and control.

In the second half, Barcelona started stronger and nearly scored when a deflected shot by Pina hit the crossbar. But Arsenal didn’t back down. After a mistake by Barcelona’s defense, substitute Stina Blackstenius broke through and almost scored, but her shot was saved.

Moments later, Arsenal got their big chance. Beth Mead passed cleverly to Blackstenius, who scored with a low shot into the bottom corner. Arsenal were now 1-0 up with just 15 minutes left.

Barcelona didn’t respond as expected. The pressure never came, and Arsenal held on to win their first Champions League title in over a decade — and spoil Barcelona’s 100th game in the competition.

While Barcelona’s women can still win the domestic treble if they take the Copa de la Reina in June, this loss was a big shock. Many players were left in tears at the final whistle.

For Arsenal, it’s a reminder that glory can still come — even if, this time, it’s the women showing the way