Karen Carney says ‘classy’ Arsenal need ‘something magical’ to overcome Barcelona in Champions League final after Lyon comeback
Published 28/04/2025 at 10:16 GMT+1
Karen Carney was full of praise for Arsenal as they reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League final for the first time in 18 years. Arsenal overturned a first-leg defeat to Lyon to win the second leg 4-1 and advance to the May final, in which they will face Barcelona. It was not just the result that impressed Carney, but the way Arsenal went about their business as they chase European silverware.
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Arsenal have reached the final of the UEFA Women's Champions League for the first time since 2007, after beating Lyon 4-1 in the semi-final second leg and 5-3 on aggregate.
The Gunners will play reigning champions Barcelona, who defeated Chelsea in the other semi-final.
The result has been a long time coming for Arsenal, who lifted the trophy back in 2007 but have not made the final since - going out in the first round last season to boot.
Portugal’s Estadio Jose Alvalade stadium will host the final on May 24, and Karen Carney believes that the British side can lift the trophy, even if Barcelona start as favourites.
"[Barcelona have] been there, done it, and they’ll be confident," Carney told TNT Sports said after the match.
"Arsenal are the underdogs. But they’ll both be enjoying tonight. I want to see Renee Slegers’ tactical details. She’s going to have to pull something magical out, but if they have the belief to do it, why not?
"I’m ecstatic for them. What a performance. It was classy and controlled. The manager has been a revelation. I’m thrilled for them. Arsenal are back now. I really hope they win it."
Arsenal will have a tough time of it against a Barcelona outfit that dominated Chelsea across the two legs of the other semi-final, winning each game 4-1.
That they could do so against a side heading towards the Women's Super League title, with Chelsea having been full of confidence after making it to the FA Cup final too, speaks volumes of just how good Barcelona are.
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"The gulf you have seen between the two teams is absolutely huge," Carney added after Chelsea’s defeat.
"This Barca team is ridiculously good, but the defending from Chelsea has been shocking."
Carney was quick to single out player of the match Kim Little from Arsenal’s win, the midfielder having bossed proceedings in the centre of the field, before her emotions were clear for the world to see at the full-time whistle.
"I can't believe she's still playing at this level and getting better and better. It's because of her attitude and application," Carney said.
"Her and [Mariona] Caldentey's relationship - having the licence to go and attack, using her body, her calmness keeping the ball.
"When she got emotional at the end, I've never seen that. She's a classy player and person."
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