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Arsenal Faces Leuven in Champions League Rematch

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Arsenal is set for a Champions League play-off round first leg against OH Leuven in Belgium, a rematch of their league phase encounter where Arsenal secured a 3-0 victory. This time, however, the scenario is different, according to Arsenal's manager. The team is heading into the match following a FIFA Champions Cup win and a victory over WSL leaders Manchester City, making them favorites to advance.

Manager Renee Slegers emphasized the importance of humility, understanding the two-legged format presents a different challenge, with a total of 180 minutes of play. She anticipates Leuven will prioritize strong defense and counter-attacks. The winner of this tie will advance to the quarterfinals, where a match against Chelsea awaits. Arsenal aims to maintain their winning momentum in this crucial stage of the competition.

Paris FC will also face Real Madrid in a rematch, following their league phase meeting in the Spanish capital, where Caroline Weir scored a late equalizer. Real Madrid has the potential to face Barcelona in the quarter-finals if they win. Slegers respects Leuven, acknowledging their strong performance in the Champions League and their position leading the table in Belgium.