The England striker’s double performance in the second period inspired the home side to a 2-1 comeback victory over Real Madrid in the Women’s Champions League.
Opening Period Dominance but Opponents Score Late
Arsenal generated plenty of chances during the opening 45 minutes, but ex-Gunner the Scottish midfielder put Real Madrid in front on the brink of half-time with a brilliant strike.
The winger delivered a dangerous corner into the box in the early minutes, but Frida Maanum headed off target. Moments later, Weir had a opportunity stopped at the opposite goal.
The attacker lifted an attempt above the bar as Arsenal pressed for an early goal, and Misa Rodríguez scooped up Maanum's next attempt.
Spectacular Goal Gives Madrid the Advantage
The defender made a solid challenge to turn Athenea del Castillo's shot behind for a corner. In spite of their positive beginning, the home team fell behind in the final moments of the half after a stunning strike from Weir.
A curling set-piece was headed by Steph Catley into the way of Weir just inside the box, and she drilled a volley past the Arsenal goalkeeper.
Russo Leads Second Period Comeback
The German had an shot blocked after the break, but Arsenal levelled in the 53rd minute when Kelly’s cross was nodded past the keeper by the forward.
Smith had a mis-hit shot gathered by Rodríguez before Arsenal took the lead in the 67th minute. Beth Mead delivered a corner to Russo lurking on the edge of the goal area, and the attacker powered a powerful header into the net.
Final Stages and Win Sealed
Russo persisted to pose a threat and was flagged for being beyond the last defender twice after finding promising situations.
Alba Redondo broke forward for the visitors in the dying minutes but had her shot held by Van Domselaar as the home side secured the win.
