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Arsenal started their season off in thrilling fashion, beating Chelsea 3-2 at home in Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Vivianne Miedema put Arsenal up 1-0 early, getting in behind Chelsea’s backline and firing a low shot into the near post. The score marked Miedema’s 61st goal in 68 Women’s Super League games.

Chelsea responded just before the break, with Erin Cuthbert rifling a shot past the keeper from close range to make it 1-1.

A pair of goals from Beth Mead early in the second half put Arsenal ahead of Chelsea once again. First, the English striker split Chelsea’s center backs and delivered a rocket into the far post.

After a well-executed build-up play, Mead beat the keeper to score her second goal and give Arsenal a 3-1 lead.

Chelsea attempted a comeback late into the second half, with Pernille heading in a corner kick in the 64th minute to cut into Arsenal’s lead.

Arsenal held on until the final whistle, defeating the 2020 FA WSL champions for their first win of the season.

Next up: Chelsea will look to rebound against Everton on Sept. 12. Arsenal will met Reading on the same day.

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