Why Chloe Kelly says Arsenal are “special” after FIFA Women’s Champions Cup win | OneFootball

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: Chloe Kelly of Arsenal and Gisela Robledo of SC Corinthians embrace following the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup 2026 Final match between Arsenal Women FC and SC Corinthians at Arsenal Stadium on February 01, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Harriet Lander – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Chloe Kelly described her Arsenal team-mates as “special” as they lifted the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup.

The Lioness – who is on her way back from injury – came on as a substitute in both the semi-final and the final as she returns to fitness.

The Gunners beat Corinthians 3-2 after extra time to win the tournament, with the final hosted at their home ground of the Emirates.

And Kelly told FIFA’s official website that the team had fought hard for the victory.

“We’re a special team, it was great fight from us tonight,” she said.

“Corinthians are a great team, so we had to test ourselves. It was a tough game to play in, a battle.

“Coming off the bench [you’re] trying to get up with the rhythm of the play, but it was a good game to play in. It’s unbelievable from the team, a whole squad effort. It takes all of us to get the job done.

“We’re creating more history for Arsenal Football Club.”

Chloe Kelly late sub as Arsenal win FIFA Women’s Champions Cup

Kelly came on for Beth Mead in the 76th minute with Arsenal leading 2-1 – and must have expected to only get another 15 minutes of match action in her legs.

Instead, Katie McCabe conceded a penalty in added time to allow Corinthians to equalise via Vic Albuquerque and force extra time.

And Caitlin Foord scored the winner in the 104th minute to ensure the Gunners would lift the trophy in front of their fans.

The evening was soured by what looked to be a serious injury to Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe in the closing moments.