Defeat in the North

October 04, 2025

Joie Stadium, Manchester

Last season in Manchester, Arsenal triumphed 4–3 in a seven-goal storm, Blackstenius the late heroine. That victory extended a five-match unbeaten run against City. Tonight, the run ended.

The opening half unfolded in tension — patience against pressure, control against chaos. Arsenal began brightly: Smith carved the first chance, Mariona curled at Yamashita, Russo prowled between lines. But City settled, Miedema — once Arsenal’s own — dictating rhythm, linking with Fujino, forcing Van Domselaar into work. On 36 minutes, Shaw rose above the crowd and headed home. Arsenal’s final word before the break came from Foord, her low effort drifting wide.

Arsenal struck back immediately after the restart. Smith and Fox combined; Mariona bent her shot into the far corner. One minute of balance, then disruption — Greenwood’s corner caused confusion, Casparij forcing it over the line for 2–1. It might have been three soon after, Shaw denied at point-blank range by Van Domselaar.

Renné turned to his bench. Kelly, Mead, and Blackstenius entered. Blackstenius nearly levelled when Jade Rose’s miscue sent her through, but Yamashita smothered. Then came the return — Chloe Kelly, once City’s own, booed by familiar throats. In the 83rd minute, she linked with Maanum and Blackstenius, turned onto her right foot, and looped her shot beyond the keeper. 2–2. The celebration was fierce, fleeting, electric. Her second attempt, moments later, curled narrowly wide.

But City answered ruthlessly. Five minutes later, Beney drilled low into the corner. “Chloe, what’s the score?” came the chants. The night belonged to Manchester once more.

The European champions now stand five points behind Chelsea, winless in three. They ran, they fought, but energy alone is not enough.

Manchester City 3 – 2 Arsenal

 (K. Shaw ‘36, M. Caldentey ‘46, K. Casparij ‘61, C. Kelly ‘83, I. Beney ‘88)