UEFA Women’s Champions League Semifinal Preview: Arsenal vs OL Lyonnes

Semifinal First Leg Overview

When and Where: Match Details

The first leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal pits defending champions Arsenal against French powerhouse OL Lyonnes. The match kicks off on Sunday, April 26, at 10:30 a.m. ET at the Emirates Stadium in London.

Broadcast and Streaming Options

Fans across the United States can catch every moment live on CBS Sports Network, with simultaneous streaming available via Paramount+. Pre-match coverage begins with a new edition of “UEFA Women’s Champions League Today,” followed by in-studio analysis during halftime and post-match wrap-ups.

Head-to-Head History and Semifinal Stakes

Arsenal’s Title Defense Journey

Arsenal enter the UWCL semifinal having navigated a challenging group phase and knockout playoff round. The Gunners had to overcome OH Leuven (7-1 aggregate) before eliminating domestic rivals Chelsea in a dramatic quarterfinal second leg. With the Women’s Super League title out of reach, Arsenal’s sole focus now rests on retaining their Champions League crown. Their semifinal run is fueled by experience—the same stage where they ousted OL Lyonnes last season en route to lifting the trophy.

OL Lyonnes’ Pursuit of Ninth Title

OL Lyonnes are perennial contenders in the UWCL, chasing a record-extending ninth championship since 2012. After finishing second in the group stage behind Barcelona, Lyonnes dispatched their quarterfinal opponent despite dropping their first-leg fixture. The squad’s depth—anchored by veterans Wendie Renard and Ada Hegerberg, alongside prolific attackers Tabitha Chawinga and Melchie Dumornay—makes OL a formidable semifinal opponent hungry to reclaim European glory.

Second Leg Scheduling

The return leg takes place on Saturday, May 2, at 9 a.m. ET. OL Lyonnes will host Arsenal at Groupama Stadium, with live coverage again on Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network. Goal differentials and aggregate strategies will be crucial as each side looks to secure their spot in the UWCL final.

Key Storylines to Watch

Arsenal’s Knockout Resilience

Arsenal remain the only team in the semifinal that navigated the knockout playoff phase—a testament to their resilience. Manager Renee Slegers has emphasized learning from last year’s triumph and adapting to OL’s tactical threats. Missing midfield dynamo Kyra Cooney-Cross and forward Beth Mead, Arsenal must rely on squad cohesion and defensive solidity to withstand Lyonnes’ pressure.

OL Lyonnes’ Tactical Depth

Head coach Jonatan Giraldez faces selection dilemmas amid a deep roster brimming with talent. OL’s midfield transition play and quick ball circulation test every opponent. Watch for how Lyonnes exploit Arsenal’s wide areas and whether they can neutralize the hosts’ high press. With U.S. internationals Lindsey Horan and Lilly Yohannes supporting the attack, OL possess the creativity to break through a disciplined Arsenal backline.

Final Thoughts

This semifinal clash between Arsenal and OL Lyonnes captures the essence of the UEFA Women’s Champions League: tactical innovation, star-studded lineups, and high-stakes drama. Whether Arsenal will defend their title or OL will restore their European dominance hinges on fine margins over these two legs. Mark your calendars, prepare your streaming access, and get ready for an unmissable UWCL semifinal showdown.