Alessia Russo's hat‑trick propels Arsenal past Benfica and sets English record

Arsenal Women secured a 3‑0 victory over Benfica in a Women’s Champions League league‑phase match on Wednesday, with forward Alessia Russo completing a hat‑trick. The win moved the Gunners up to second place in the group standings. Russo’s three goals at Meadow Park also made her the highest‑scoring English player in the competition’s history.

The 27‑year‑old striker’s performance was highlighted by Arsenal manager Renée Slegers, who praised Russo as a leader and role model for the squad. Slegers noted that Russo’s influence extends beyond scoring, citing her ability to connect with teammates and consistently do the right things on and off the pitch.

Background

Russo’s hat‑trick came after a period of early‑season adjustment for Arsenal Women. Prior to the match, she had scored ten goals across her last seven appearances for both club and country, indicating a return to form at a crucial stage of the campaign. The victory against Benfica was part of the league‑phase of the Women’s Champions League, a competition that determines which teams advance to the knockout rounds.

Both the Guardian and BBC Sport reported the same outcome, confirming Russo’s record‑breaking status. Sky Sports also identified the match as a league‑phase encounter, emphasizing the historical significance of Russo’s achievement for English women’s football.

Why it matters

Russo’s record elevates her profile within English football and underscores Arsenal’s attacking strength in European competition. The three‑point win improves Arsenal’s position in the group, keeping them in contention for a place in the knockout stages. For Benfica, the defeat highlights the challenge of competing against a side with a prolific scorer.

The manager’s comments suggest Russo’s influence may extend to team morale and cohesion, factors that could affect Arsenal’s performance in upcoming matches. Additionally, Russo’s milestone adds to the narrative of English players making a mark in continental tournaments.

What happens next

Arsenal remain in second place in their group and will aim to secure a top‑two finish to progress to the knockout phase of the Women’s Champions League. The next group matches are scheduled in the coming weeks, with the exact dates and opponents detailed by UEFA’s competition calendar. Russo’s form will be closely watched as Arsenal seek to build on the momentum generated by the Benfica victory.