Russo hat trick and double fire Arsenal Women revival before Barcelona test
Alessia Russo has carried Arsenal Women through one of the most eventful stretches of their Women's Super League season, scoring in four straight matches as Renée Slegers' side try to turn a stuttering start into genuine momentum.
After a frustrating opening to the campaign that raised questions about Slegers' ability to turn results around, Russo's form has given Arsenal supporters renewed hope. The England international scored the winning penalty in the North London Derby victory over Tottenham, having also set up Georgia Stanway's equaliser in that match.
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A hat trick in Europe, then more finishing frustration
That derby win was followed by an impressive 3-0 Champions League victory over Benfica, in which Russo scored a hat trick. The momentum stalled again last Sunday, though, when Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw by Aston Villa at the Emirates.
Arsenal dominated that game but needed an 85th minute header from Russo to rescue a point after Chasity Grant had put Villa ahead. According to Sky Sports, Arsenal registered 27 shots against Villa but managed just one goal, underlining the finishing problems that have plagued the campaign.
Russo's Anfield double seals away win
Arsenal's trip to Anfield on Sunday delivered a much needed three points, with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool built entirely around another Russo double. She opened the scoring in the eighth minute, converting Emily Fox's low cross, before Beata Olsson equalised for Liverpool seven minutes later.
Russo restored Arsenal's lead just before half time, heading home a cross from Lisa Baum to complete her brace. The Gunners held on to secure the away win, giving Slegers a welcome boost ahead of a demanding week.
Barcelona test looms
Arsenal now face a Champions League trip to Barcelona on Wednesday, a fixture that will provide a serious examination of their European ambitions. That is followed by a WSL home fixture against London City Lionesses next Sunday, which represents another opportunity to recover lost ground domestically.
The underlying issues around converting chances have not disappeared, with 27 shots yielding only one goal against Villa a clear illustration of that. But Russo's run of four goal involvements across four matches has given Arsenal a focal point going into a week that could shape both their European and domestic ambitions.
Arsenal will need the same cutting edge in Catalonia if they are to make a real statement in the Champions League, before turning attention back to climbing the WSL table against London City Lionesses.
