Stina Blackstenius delivered a dramatic 93rd-minute winner on Wednesday, as Arsenal defeated Everton 1-0 at the Emirates — keeping the Gunners' 2026/27 Champions League qualification hopes alive in their final home game of the WSL season.
Arsenal vs Everton looked destined for a goalless draw until Blackstenius tapped one home from the penalty spot after a scramble off a corner. The goal moved Arsenal two points ahead of third-place Chelsea with one match remaining.
Arsenal dominated possession but struggled to break down the Everton defense, despite the Toffees conceding 10 goals in the last five WSL matches. Beth Mead came closest in the first half, when her header from Emily Fox's cross hit the underside of the crossbar before bouncing on the line. The England winger — making her 249th and penultimate appearance for the club — struck the bar again later in the half.
Alessia Russo raced through in the opening 15 minutes and fired a shot through Everton goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan's legs, but defenders cleared before Arsenal could tap it home. Meanwhile, Laia Codina thought she got one through early in the second half — only for the flag to rule it offside.
Later, Olivia Smith crashed an effort off the bar as Arsenal piled on pressure. The substitute nearly created the winner when her cross found Blackstenius, who missed a header with 10 minutes remaining.
Everton nearly stole the victory when Ornella Vignola's deflected shot bounced just wide of the post, but Blackstenius ensured Arsenal's possessive dominance paid off in stoppage time.
Where to Watch Arsenal vs Liverpool in WSL Final Matchday
Manager Renée Slegers's side now needs only a point off Liverpool to secure a spot in next season's Champions League competition.
Arsenal kicks off against Liverpool on Saturday at 8 AM ET, streaming live on ESPN.
