Her Football Hub
·6 May 2024
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·6 May 2024
The Gunners dealt Manchester City a major blow in their Women’s Super League title push last weekend. Despite Lauren Hemp inching her side ahead early on, Stina Blackstenius scored two goals in three minutes for Arsenal right at the death to wound the title contenders.
Arsenal may be out of the picture for this year’s trophy, but that hasn’t stopped them from shaking up the narrative.
The first half saw Man City in the lead, dominating with a 1-0 score as Arsenal struggled to find their footing. But the game was far from over, and the second half ignited a newfound wind of energy in the Gunners.
Enter Blackstenius — a game-changing substitute for Arsenal at the 62-minute mark. The Sweden international delivered a masterclass that completely transformed the match. As the clock ticked over, Arsenal’s renewed energy was palpable, culminating in a dramatic highpoint in the 89th minute. Beth Mead whipped a corner into the box, Caitlin Foord skilfully headed it on, and there was Blackstenius to execute her finish, levelling the score and electrifying the stadium.
But the 28-year-old wasn’t finished yet. In the dying embers of the match, after a precision pass from Kim Little, Blackstenius rose highest to send a perfect header into the far corner, propelling Arsenal to a 2-1 lead. This wasn’t just a goal — it was a statement.
This is not the first time Blackstenius has stolen the win for Arsenal against Man City either. In their last WSL clash back in November, the Swedish striker scored a stunning goal in the 87th minute, stealing the spotlight and the win at the very end, just as she did against Man City.
Blackstenius single-handedly shattered City’s impressive 14-game winning streak, just as they were eyeing the WSL trophy. Now, with the tables turned, the Citizens find themselves neck-and-neck with Chelsea, who are back in the chase.