Arsenal throw away two-goal lead as late Paris penalty wipes out Russo and Stanway strikes

Arsenal Women surrendered a two-goal lead as Paris FC fought back to draw 2-2 in the Women’s Champions League on Wednesday.

Alessia Russo put the visitors ahead before the interval, with Georgia Stanway doubling their advantage early in the second half.

However, Clara Mateo pulled one back before Maeline Mendy’s late penalty completed the comeback at Stade Jean-Bouin.

Paris FC vs Arsenal Women: Two points slip away

Renée Slegers had made two changes to Arsenal’s starting XI, bringing Misa into goal and Lotte Wubben-Moy into defence for the injured Steph Catley.

The goals from Russo and Stanway put Arsenal within reach of a second successive European victory following their opening win against HB Køge.

Instead, the visitors finished with a point after a costly closing spell.

The result leaves Arsenal on four points from their opening two league-phase matches. They remain unbeaten in the competition, but this was a significant opportunity missed.

Williamson handball proves costly

The equaliser followed a disputed handball decision against Leah Williamson during a goal-kick restart, an incident highlighted in Online Gooner’s post-match coverage.

The Guardian’s live account reported that the referee considered Misa’s pass to have restarted play before Williamson handled the ball.

Mendy converted, leaving Arsenal to reflect on how a commanding position became another frustrating evening.

For Slegers, the attacking breakthrough offered encouragement. The failure to turn it into three points will demand greater attention.