Katie McCabe Makes Late Cameo as Arsenal Defeat Benfica in Women’s Champions League

Republic of Ireland international Katie McCabe was introduced as a late substitute as defending champions Arsenal began their Women’s Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Benfica in Lisbon.

Following a cagey and uneventful first half, the Gunners—who had lost to Lyon in their opening fixture of the revamped league phase—broke the deadlock just before the hour mark through a scrappy finish from Beth Mead.

Having ended a four-match winless streak with a win over Brighton in the Women’s Super League on Sunday, Arsenal ensured all three points when Alessia Russo slotted home from a well-worked free-kick routine, expertly delivered by substitute Chloe Kelly.

McCabe, who is on course to reach 100 international caps during the upcoming UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation play-off against Belgium later this month, replaced Emily Fox in the 85th minute at the Estadio da Luz.

Manchester United Edge Atletico Madrid Despite Red Card

Elsewhere, Manchester United overcame the first-half dismissal of defender Dominique Janssen to claim a 1–0 victory away to Atletico Madrid, maintaining their perfect start to the Champions League campaign.

Sweden forward Fridolina Rolfö put the visitors ahead with a close-range volley in the 24th minute.

Netherlands centre-back Janssen was then shown a straight red card before half-time following a VAR review of her sliding challenge on Gio Garbelini, who was stretchered off. Atletico also finished the match with 10 players after Alexia Fernandez was sent off for a second bookable offence with 15 minutes remaining.

Late Drama as Bayern Munich Edge Juventus

In Germany, Lea Schüller struck a dramatic 95th-minute winner as Bayern Munich edged out Juventus 2–1 at the FC Bayern Campus.

Juventus had swiftly cancelled out Pernille Harder’s 11th-minute opener with a superb free-kick from Eva Schatzer, and appeared to be heading home with a point. However, Schüller’s stoppage-time strike sealed the win.

Juventus players protested that the ball had been cleared off the line, but after a VAR check, the goal was allowed to stand.

Real Madrid Claim Away Win Over PSG

Real Madrid secured a 2–1 away victory against Paris Saint-Germain, thanks to first-half goals from Naomie Feller and Alba Redondo.

PSG pulled one back in the 58th minute through Rasheedat Ajibade, but the Spanish side held firm to make it two wins from two in the competition.