SOCCER: Russo on target as Arsenal earn 3-1 win over Chelsea in Women's Champions League

Alessia Russo scored her eighth Women's Champions League goal as Arsenal defeated Chelsea 3-1 in the first leg of their quarter-final, with Stina Blackstenius and Chloe Kelly also on the scoresheet. The Gunners take a strong lead into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Philip O'Connor / Reuters

March 25, 2026

Arsenal's Alessia Russo celebrates scoring their third goal with Stina Blackstenius at the Emirates Stadium during the UEFA Women's Champions League Quarter Finals first leg against Chelsea on March 24, 2026.

Paul Childs / Reuters

Alessia Russo scored her eighth goal of the Women’s Champions League season as holders Arsenal defeated London rivals Chelsea 3-1 in the first leg of their quarter-final on Tuesday.

The Gunners took an early lead when Swedish forward Stina Blackstenius, who netted the only goal in last season’s final against Barcelona, headed in Katie McCabe’s free kick in the 22nd minute.

Arsenal doubled their advantage before halftime with a stunning long-range strike from England winger Chloe Kelly. Chelsea fought back in the 66th minute when Lauren James unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner, reducing the deficit.

With heavy rain and strong winds at the Emirates Stadium, Russo sealed Arsenal’s two-goal lead, finishing a pass from Blackstenius to score the third goal ahead of the second leg.

Earlier Tuesday, German side VfL Wolfsburg earned a 1-0 win over eight-time champions Olympique Lyonnais thanks to a deflected shot from Lineth Beerensteyn, setting up a tense second leg in France next week.

-Reporting by Philip O’Connor; Editing by Toby Davis/Reuters