The stage is set for a historic encounter as Arsenal Women prepare to face Moroccan giants ASFAR in the semi-finals of the first-ever FIFA Women’s Champions Cup. Entering the tournament as reigning European champions, the Gunners are the heavy favorites to lift the intercontinental trophy on home soil.
Arsenal’s Quest for Global Dominance
Currently sitting third in the Women’s Super League (WSL), Arsenal have made the Champions Cup their top priority for the mid-season. Playing at home in London, the Gunners aim to solidify their status as the world’s best. However, they face a resilient opponent in ASFAR, the current CAF Women’s Champions League titleholders, who earned their spot in the final four after a grueling 2-1 extra-time victory over Wuhan Jiangda.
ASFAR: “We Are Here to Fight”
Despite the gap in resources, the Moroccan side arrives with high morale and a clear mission. Speaking to FIFA.com, ASFAR captain Najat Badri expressed her team’s determination to cause an upset:
“We are determined to fight and will give everything to play a great match against Arsenal,” Badri stated. “They are a world-class team, but we want to make history. We want to leave our mark on this tournament and finish on a high note.”
Match Details: Arsenal vs. ASFAR
The semi-final clash is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28th.
- Kick-off: 18:00 GMT (local London time).
- Venue: London (Home ground of Arsenal Women).
The winner will advance to the final of the first intercontinental tournament for women, a competition FIFA launched to bridge the gap between global confederations and celebrate the rapid growth of the women’s game.
Laurinda Jocias is a football writer covering English women’s football, including the Women’s Super League. Her work focuses on players, clubs, and the continued development of the women’s game in the UK.
