Arsenal demolished AS FAR 6-0 on Wednesday evening to reach the final of the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup – and head coach Renee Slegers spoke afterwards about upcoming opponents Corinthians.
“It’s one game and it’s, of course, the champions of the different continents,” Slegers said to the club’s official website, “so it’s never going to be an easy game. I watched [Corinthians’ 1-0 win over Gotham FC in the other semi-final], but we’re going to prepare in detail.
“They won the game with a goal and they did everything to get the win. They look like a very passionate, strong, disciplined and technically gifted team. So it’s going to be an exciting game.”
Renee Slegers: Arsenal deserve the results
Goals from Stina Blackstenius, Frida Maanum, Mariona Caldentey, Olivia Smith and Alessia Russo (2) got Arsenal through to the final.
But some might think that Arsenal have an advantage now, though, with the third-place play-off and the final being held at their home ground of the Emirates Stadium rather than a neutral venue.
But Slegers shrugged off the worry – focusing instead on her team’s achievements.
“We’re happy that we’re at home in front of the Arsenal fans. The team is doing really well. And it’s not only what you see, the results are the results of what they’re doing in the background, how they’re investing and how we are together in everything at the moment.
“It’s a pleasure to work with the team and I’m really happy that they get the results and the wins. They deserve it.”
And she also had praise for AS FAR, who endured a torrid evening against the holders of the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
“I also want to say the opposition is an inspiration for us as well. The way they are pioneering for women’s football in Africa and Morocco specifically, it was inspirational to play against them.”
