Alessia Russo became the highest-ever English goalscorer in Women's Champions League history with a hat-trick as Arsenal won 3-0 against Benfica in their league phase match.
The Gunners' No 9 matched Fran Kirby's record (21) with her first-half opener - a low, diagonal effort that beat goalkeeper Lena Pauels. Her next goal - a glancing header from Steph Catley's corner - made her the outright record holder, before adding another from the penalty spot after Caitlin Foord was fouled by Catarina Amado, taking her to 23 goals.
"She is everything," Arsenal boss Renee Slegers told Disney+ after the game. "It's hard to know where to start. She is such a humble, nice human being, cares for everything and everyone, does everything to the fullest."
Russo scored the hat-trick in front of England boss Sarina Wiegman, who would also have been impressed by Georgia Stanway. The striker's own form mirrors that of Arsenal, who have won back-to-back games for the first time this season, alleviating pressure after another poor start. The result sends them second in the Champions League table, with their next European fixture a huge game at Barcelona on November 12.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing