A shared past in European competition
FC Barcelona and Arsenal are preparing for a duel that resonates in the memory of football fans. This encounter is not a debut, but a continuation of a rivalry that has experienced four previous chapters in European competitions, with a balanced record: two wins on each side and a total of eight goals scored. Its last meeting took place during the group stage of the Champions League 2021/2022, while the previous one goes back to the 2012/2013 season, marking Barça’s debut in this prestigious competition. Next Saturday, May 24 at 6.30 pm, both formations will see the faces in a final that promises to be unforgettable.
The Barça triumph of 2021: an exhibition of power
In the 2021/2022 season, Barça players showed overwhelming superiority. In the first round, Johan Cruyff hosted a football show where the Blaugrana defeated Arsenal 4-1, with Mariona Caldentey highlighting as the most valuable player in the game. The other annotations were the work of Alexia Putellas, Oshoala and Lieke Martens. Two months later, Barça repeated the feat, this time with a forceful 0-4 at the Emirates Stadium, where Aitana Bonmatí, Rolfö and Jennifer Hermoso were the authors of the goals.
A difficult start: Barça’s debut in Europe
To go back in time and explore the first meetings between these two giants, we must analyze the 2012/2013 season. Barça at that time were starting their way in the Champions League, while Arsenal already enjoyed a considerable experience, with a trophy in his record. In the first game, played in the Miniestadi against only 1357 spectators, the English team, led by Laura Harvey, won a forceful victory of 0-3. On his return, Arsenal reaffirmed his superiority with a 4-0, leaving Barça out of competition. In that game, a young Alexia Putellas made his first steps in a club that would soon become his house.
Expectations for the final: a new chapter
As the final approaches, the expectations are very high. With a history of powers that includes triumphs and defeats, this new match promises to be an occasion for history. Both Barça and Arsenal have the motivation to demonstrate their strength in European football. Fans from around the world will be watching this duel, who will not only decide a champion, but also could mark a new start in the rivalry between these two emblematic clubs.