Champions Arsenal Capitalise on Lyons Mistakes in UWCL Semi Final Opener

The team topping the French standings struck first in the 18th minute as Jule Brand netted with Lyons solitary effort on goal during the opening period.

However the Gunners drew level just prior to the hour courtesy of an unfortunate own goal from Ingrid Engen following Christiane Endlers failure to secure the ball.

Arsenal then went ahead as Olivia Smith capitalised on yet another defensive lapse from the visitors towards the end of the match.

These opponents clashed at this stage last year with Arsenal prevailing 5-3 overall before claiming the title by defeating Barcelona in the decisive match.

Lyon opened the scoring at the Emirates on Sunday as Brand advanced and veered inwards to slot past Arsenal keeper Daphne van Domselaar with poise.

The hosts believed they had a route back when given a spot kick shortly after the break but the call was reversed following VAR review.

Arsenal equalised in the 58th minute as Mariona Caldenteys driven free kick found the net in unexpected fashion.

Lyons Endler fumbled it and the unlucky Engen deflected home.

Kadidiatou Diani struck the bar as the French outfit pressed to regain control yet Arsenal added another.

Endler and Engen suffered a breakdown in understanding and Smith persisted to nudge the ball over the line in the 83rd minute.

The return fixture occurs in Lyon the following weekend.