Arsenal climb to 3rd in the Champions League following Benfica win

Arsenal Women defeated Benfica 3-0 on Wednesday behind an Alessia Russo hat-trick, moving up to third place in the Champions League table. The victory gives Arsenal positive momentum ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures against table leaders Barcelona and second-placed OL Lyonnes. Sylvain Jamet notes tactical adjustments, including Russo playing as a number ten behind Olivia Smith, as well as first starts for Geraldine Reuteler and Elisa de Almeida.

Jamet also reports several injury updates, noting Katie Reid is expected to miss time until after Christmas due to an ankle knock, while Frida Maanum is anticipated to return against Aston Villa. Mariona Caldentey, Chloe Kelly, Michelle Agyemang, and Selina Cerci remain sidelined, while Daphne van Domselaar is nearing a return.