Arsenal finally end WSL slump with contentious derby win at Tottenham

Arsenal recorded their first Women’s Super League win since the opening day of the season as they came from behind in contentious circumstances to beat Tottenham 2-1 in the north London derby.

Alessia Russo’s 56th-minute penalty, awarded after Cathinka Tandberg’s clearance smashed into the raised arm of substitute Ella Morris, completed the turnaround.

It was the first time in 31 matches – stretching back to March 2023 – Spurs had lost in the league having scored the opening goal and the hosts’ woes were also compounded by a serious-looking injury to Alice Sombath.

Tandberg had outjumped the trio of Stephanie Catley, Georgia Stanway and Emily Fox to head home a 13th-minute corner but the lead lasted just four minutes before Russo teed up Stanway to score off the underside of the crossbar.

Georgia Standway found the equaliser for Arsenal (Getty)

Russo went from provider to scorer for the winner from the spot and said she had been practicing her penalties in training in case of this scenario.

"I've worked on it [the penalty] in training, first and foremost,” she told BBC One. “I think we knew some of us were going to have to step up today in different moments.

“It's been tough for us, there's no denying. Whether it was Foordy stepping up, Misa making saves, me on the pen - everyone stepped up.”

The result eases pressure on Gunners manager Renee Slegers who was at risk of losing her job amid the dire run of form, less than 18 months on from guiding Arsenal to the Champions League title.

Renee Slegers celebrates after Arsenal end their WSL slump (Reuters)

She was part of wild celebrations after the final whistle as Arsenal players rejoiced with the fans in the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium away end.

“Happiness mainly,” she said when asked on her emotions. “I see the fans and what it means for them. I'm happy for the players, who stuck in in a really difficult period for us.

“There was good moments from us. It was a step in the right direction. Very happy with the win but we have to back it up.

"Things in different phases were good. We were brave in our press. We did well playing around them and dominating the ball. We created not as many shots as last week but we weren't expecting to. The opportunities created were good."

Arsenal’s next match will see them host Benfica in the Champions League on Wednesday 28 October before staying at the Emirates Stadium for the visit of Aston Villa in the league next weekend, hoping to secure back-to-back wins for the first time this term.