Arsenal strengthened its position in the Champions League qualification race with a 2-0 victory over London City Lionesses on March 16th.
The Gunners moved within striking distance of the WSL's top three allotted spots as Manchester City drew with Aston Villa while Chelsea and Manchester United competed in the Subway Cup final. The result leaves Arsenal fourth in the WSL standings with crucial games in hand.
City holds an 11-point advantage over Arsenal, while Manchester United sits two points ahead and Chelsea leads by a single point. Arsenal has one game in hand over Chelsea and United, plus two over City.
On Sunday, Arsenal manager Renee Slegers selected Anneke Borbe in goal ahead of Daphne van Domselaar despite the Dutch keeper not playing for the Netherlands during the international break.
"Anneke's been doing really well and it was about readiness, who was most ready to perform," Slegers told reporters.
Olivia Smith opened scoring for the Gunners in the 15th minute. 2024/25 Champions League hero Stina Blackstenius subsequently sealed the deal with a second-half strike.
Arsenal avoided injuries during the international window, despite dealing with long-term absences and three Australian players competing at the Asian Cup.
Slegers went on to acknowledge defensive concerns, after London City created dangerous three-on-three and four-on-four situations on the pitch.
"We want to have a look at to defend those moments better when teams go vertical against us," she said.
What's Next for 2024/25 Champions League Winner Arsenal
Arsenal now faces four straight London derbies, with West Ham visiting in league play before twin Champions League quarterfinals against Chelsea and a North London Derby against Tottenham at Emirates Stadium.
