Arsenal failed to secure a win against Paris FC on Wednesday night, drawing 2-2 after relinquishing a two-goal lead. Manager Renée Slegers was absent from the post-match press conference, reportedly due to frustration over the outcome. Instead, assistant coach Aaron D’Antino addressed the media following a critical blunder involving goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez and center-back Leah Williamson, which led to a penalty converted by Maeline Mendy, denying Arsenal all three points.
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The match saw Arsenal take an early two-goal lead through goals from Alessia Russo and Georgia Stanway. However, Clara Mateo reduced the deficit before a mix-up resulted in Williamson handling the ball, with the referee ruling that play had restarted from a goal-kick. D’Antino expressed disappointment over the situation, stating that Arsenal had not taken a goal-kick and criticized the decision.
This draw adds to Arsenal’s struggles this season, as the team has now earned just five points from their opening four matches and is facing a challenging title race.
In related matches, Barcelona continued their strong performance with a 6-0 win over Roma, while Bayern Munich secured a 3-0 victory against Benfica. Juventus also triumphed, defeating Häcken 3-0 in Sweden.
The match held at Stade Jean-Bouin was overshadowed by Arsenal's difficulties in breaking down teams that defend deep. Arsenal's first goal was greeted with relief, but their second soon turned into anxiety as Paris FC pressed back. The mix-up that led to the penalty was a significant turning point in the match, intensifying the pressure on Arsenal ahead of their upcoming game against league leaders Manchester City on Sunday.