Second-half strikes from Katie Chapman and Ellen White put Arsenal in good stead for a quarter-final spot as the Gunners overcame German champions FFC Turbine Potsdam 2-1 in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie last night.
Although Arsenal put on a strong performance the visitors hit back with a late goal from Yuki Ogimi giving Potsdam an important away goal ahead of next week’s return tie in Germany.
Arsenal’s victory meant they became the first British team to beat German opposition, with Potsdam winners of the 2010 title.
Last night’s match was the first time two former European champions had met in the last 16 of the competition and Laura Harvey’s unbeaten FA WSL champion side came into the match having not played a competitive game since October 10 when they won the Continental Cup following victory over Birmingham City.
Despite their absence, Arsenal seemed the brighter side with the hosts dominating for large periods before Chapman opened the scoring after 70 minutes.
White then doubled their advantage 13 minutes later, but Ogimi’s late strike ensured the visitors left Meadow Park with a valuable away goal.
Arsenal will travel to Potsdam next Wednesday for the away leg.
Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
