Slegers’ substitutions inspire Arsenal revival | OneFootball

Arsenal mounted a dramatic comeback from 2-0 and 3-1 down to secure a thrilling victory over West Ham United, closing the gap on Women’s Super League leaders Chelsea to eight points.

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The match did not unfold as expected, with West Ham presenting a far greater challenge than anticipated in what proved to be an enthralling spectacle for WSL audiences. The game served as a superb advertisement for the league, offering television viewers a contest filled with tension, fight, and tactical adjustments.

A resilient Arsenal fights back

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If one thing became clear from the performance, it is that this Arsenal side is relentless and ready to fight until the very end. The coaching staff demonstrated their willingness to make bold changes when the initial game plan was not working.

The starting XI featured Daphne van Domselaar in goal, with a defensive line of Emily Fox, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, and Katie McCabe. The midfield duo of Kim Little and Lia Wälti supported an attacking unit consisting of Chloe Kelly, Frida Maanum, Mariona Caldentey, and Alessia Russo.

In theory, this lineup was strong, and offensively, Arsenal looked threatening in the first half, creating numerous early chances but failing to convert. Defensively, however, the team struggled.

Defensive frailties exposed

Set pieces were a glaring weakness. Amber Tysiak punished Arsenal twice, scoring from corners, with her second goal sparking controversy – Wälti appeared to be fouled in the buildup, an incident that could have warranted a VAR review had the technology been available in the WSL. While VAR remains absent from the league, the implementation of Football Video Support as part of the IFAB/FIFA trial should be a priority moving forward.

Beyond set pieces, defensive transitions were poorly managed. Every West Ham counter-attack posed a serious threat, exposing Arsenal’s vulnerability on the break. The Little-Wälti pivot struggled to contain transitions, and the backline failed to handle West Ham’s attacking pace effectively.

Impactful substitutions turn the game

A half-time substitution seemed inevitable, and Stina Blackstenius’ introduction immediately altered the dynamic. Her direct runs stretched West Ham’s back five, giving Arsenal greater attacking variety.

Then, just 10 minutes into the second half, Renée Slegers made a decisive tactical shift, removing her entire central midfield, introducing Kyra Cooney-Cross and Caitlin Foord. This move instantly injected energy into the team, turning the tide in Arsenal’s favour.

At that point, West Ham had just scored their third goal, capitalising on passive defending. However, Arsenal responded emphatically, scoring three goals in six minutes. A relentless attacking onslaught overwhelmed West Ham’s defence, who failed to cope with the sustained pressure.

Despite a late fightback from West Ham and nine tense minutes of stoppage time, Arsenal held firm, securing a morale-boosting victory.

Lessons learned and tactical shifts ahead

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This match is likely to have long-term implications for squad selection. Cooney-Cross may have solidified her place as a first-choice starter, with Victoria Pelova, Little, and Wälti competing to partner her in midfield.

Jenna Nighswonger also presents an intriguing tactical option, given her left-footed distribution, which could offer greater variation in Arsenal’s buildup play.

League table implications

The victory does not alter Arsenal’s league position, as Manchester United defeated Leicester City, and Manchester City won away to Tottenham Hotspur.

However, Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against Brighton means that Arsenal have cut the gap to the top to eight points.