Lyon decided late – on his way to the twelfth finals

When May comes – then the French big club Lyon usually plays final in the women’s Champions League.

So it has looked 11 of the last 15 spring. On eight occasions, the team has also been allowed to raise the buck, which makes Lyon superior « most champion » in the tournament.

Now only the first match of two in the semi -finals against Arsenal is completed, but Lyon is in the driver’s seat for a twelfth final.

Admittedly, Arsenal acknowledged On penalty in the 77th minute through Mariona Caldentey ahead of the large audience at Emirates Stadium in London. A quarter earlier, Swedish national team striker Stina Blackstenius had been replaced for the home team.

The penalty was awarded after a survey where referee Alina Pesu, Romania, could see that Lyon goalkeeper Christiane Endler met Leah Williamson in her head as she tried to box a ball on the corner.

Arsenal, however, relaxed after the goal. It took advantage of Lyon with a delicious combination game and an advancing Melchie Dumorgy could put 2-1 behind Manuela Zinsberger in the 82nd minute.

During the first half it was Lyon who dominated and after 18 minutes Kadidiatou Diani was able to run through until the lead. A goal that was first sentenced for offside, but the verdict was changed after a video review.

Arsenal won the Champions League 2007 (final victory against Umeå) when the tournament looked completely different, but now has a steep uphill to reach the club’s second final. The return in Lyon will be played next Saturday.

Amanda Ilestedt And Rosa Kafaji remained on Arsenal’s bench throughout the match. Lina Hurtig was not in the squad.

Last year Lyon lost the final against Barcelona. The Spanish big club meets Chelsea in its semi -finals where the first match is played on Sunday.