Gotham FC goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger has hit out at the timing of the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, amid reports that clubs feel that Arsenal hold a “significant advantage” at the tournament.
Why do Arsenal have an advantage at the Women’s Champions Cup?
The Guardian have reported that there are growing concerns over integrity and fairness at the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup.
Arsenal are deemed to hold an unfair advantage over Gotham FC, AS FAR and Corinthians due to the competition being held in London, with the final to be played at the Emirates Stadium.
On top of that, Arsenal and AS FAR are in the middle of their seasons, while Gotham FC and Corinthians are effectively in pre-season.
Gotham FC last played in their victorious NWSL Championship final on November 14th. The new season does not get underway until March 14th.
Corinthians last played a competitive game on September 14th. However, their season kicks off on February 7th with their Supercopa do Brasil against Palmeiras.
Clubs reportedly feel FIFA haven’t done enough to address the advantage held by Arsenal.
A Fifa spokesperson said: “As this is the inaugural edition of the competition, Fifa undertook a comprehensive assessment to identify the most suitable location to launch this new event. London was selected as the optimal choice based on a range of strategic considerations.”
Ann-Katrin Berger expresses concern over Champions Cup timing
Gotham FC goalkeeper Berger has expressed her concerns over the timing of the Women’s Champions Cup.
It comes after Gotham FC crashed out at the semi-finals with a 1-0 defeat to Corinthians.
She told reporters after the game: “I think there should be a better system where everyone arrives fit enough into the competition. You want to play against the best teams. I think that’s where you have to figure it out, when the best time is.”
Some felt Berger could have done more to stop Corinthians’ winning goal. She got a hand on Gabi Zanotti’s 83rd-minute strike, but not enough to keep it out of the net.
On the goal, she said: “Yes, maybe (could have done better), but it’s also because I didn’t have a clear view on the shot and there were so many bodies in between.”
The same issue surrounding timing could be had at the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup in January 2028. A host for the tournament has not yet been decided, though Qatar have reportedly held talks with FIFA.
Arsenal favourites in Champions Cup final
Renee Slegers’ side are heavy favourites to beat Corinthians in the Women’s Champions Cup final on Sunday.
Arsenal will have the advantage of playing on home soil at the Emirates Stadium. While the timing of the tournament perhaps suits the Gunners who are in the middle of their season.
However, Corinthians showed they were at a strong fitness level as they held out Gotham FC’s attack in the semi-final.
