Alessia Russo delivered a memorable hat trick as Arsenal secured a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Benfica, marking her return to form and propelling the Gunners to back-to-back wins in the Women's Champions League. The Arsenal captain opened the scoring in the 39th minute, equaling Fran Kirby's record of 21 goals before surpassing it just after the hour mark. Russo completed her hat trick from the penalty spot, finishing with 23 goals in the competition and becoming the all-time leading English goalscorer in UWCL history.
The win ended Arsenal's frustrating run, marking their first clean sheet in six games and providing much-needed momentum. Russo, who scored nine goals in her last seven outings for club and country, dedicated the performance to building excitement for the long season ahead. Manager Renée Slegers heaped praise on Russo's world-class impact, highlighting her contribution both on and off the pitch.
The result leaves Arsenal with seven points from three games, setting up a tough European trip to Barcelona next. This hat trick also made Russo only the fifth England player to achieve the feat in the tournament, the first since Kirby in 2018. The victory signifies a turning point for Arsenal, who look to carry this positive form into their domestic and European campaigns.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing