Arsenal pocket $2.3m prize in FIFA Women’s Champions Cup

Arsenal pocket $2.3m prize in FIFA Women’s Champions Cup

Arsenal beat Corinthians 3–2 to win the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, claiming a record $2.3 million prize, the largest financial reward in the history of women’s club football.

The European champions edged past the Brazilian side thanks to a decisive extra-time strike from Caitlin Foord, securing a payout almost four times the €500,000 ($590,000) they earned for winning last season’s UEFA Women’s Champions League.

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Despite being heavy favourites, Arsenal were pushed to the limit by a spirited Corinthians side, who had stunned US champions Gotham FC in the semi-finals.

Olivia Smith gave Arsenal an early lead, but Gabi Zanotti quickly drew Corinthians level. Lotte Wubben-Moy restored the Gunners’ advantage, and celebrations were already building when Corinthians struck back dramatically in stoppage time. Vic Albuquerque converted from the penalty spot after Gisela Robledo was fouled in the box.

Arsenal’s superior depth eventually told in extra time, as Foord squeezed a finish in at the near post to finally break Corinthians’ resistance and seal a historic victory.

“It’s not often you can write history at Arsenal because history has been written so many times,” Wubben-Moy told Sky Sports. “To come to this inaugural competition and win it, with our fans here, is really special.”

Captain Kim Little added, “It’s a unique experience being the first Champions Cup. We’ll take a lot from winning today and lifting another trophy.”

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.

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