Lyon Secure Vengeance Against Arsenal as Barcelona Demolish Bayern in Women's Champions League

Melchie Dumornay netted two goals as Lyon avenged their previous loss to Arsenal, beginning their Women's Champions League journey with a 2-1 win in London. Meanwhile, Barcelona delivered a dominant 7-1 victory over Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

Last season, Arsenal overturned a home first-leg defeat to triumph 4-1 against the French champions in the semi-final away leg, then surprised Barcelona in the final to claim the title as England's first victors of the competition in 18 years.

Yet, the Gunners have struggled in the early stages of the Women's Super League campaign, and this loss significantly impacts their chances of securing a top-four position, which is necessary for automatic qualification to the Champions League quarter-finals.

Arsenal began strongly when Alessia Russo calmly converted a finish in the seventh minute.

Lyon capitalized on a defensive error as Arsenal's goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar's misplaced pass directly reached Dumornay. She scored on the follow-up after her initial shot was blocked.

The Haitian player seized another opportunity from loose Arsenal defence, firing the ball into the top corner to double her tally within five minutes during the first half.

Barcelona commenced their mission to regain the title with a commanding victory over Bayern.

Pere Romeu stated that his team, having reached five successive Champions League finals, would compete like animals. They scored three goals within the first 27 minutes, securing a decisive win.

Alexia Putellas took the lead early, curling a shot into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area within four minutes.

The three-time champions Barcelona increased their advantage with goals from Ewa Pajor and Esmee Brugts. Klara Buhl managed a consolation for the struggling visitors.

Salma Paralluelo ensured Barcelona's three-goal lead remained intact before halftime, with Pajor scoring once more in the second half.

Claudia Pina sealed the win with two late goals. Supported by Ballon d'Or recipient Aitana Bonmati directing play in midfield, Barcelona demonstrated their status as top contenders for the title, despite last season's setback.

In other matches, Juventus overcame Benfica 2-1 with Cecilia Salvai scoring both goals, while Paris FC drew 2-2 against Leuven.

On Wednesday, English champions Chelsea will visit FC Twente, and Wolfsburg will welcome Paris Saint-Germain in key fixtures.

This season marks the first time the women's Champions League features 18 teams, each competing in six matches against different opponents during the league phase.

The top four teams advance directly to the quarter-finals, while those placed fifth to 12th enter a play-off round for a place in the final eight.