By Agência Brasil
With files from Esportes Guru
Corinthians made it to the final of the Champions Cup, the first women’s world title organized by FIFA (Photo: @FIFAcom/X)
The Corinthians women’s team gave everything they had. The Brabas (the fierce ones), as they’re called in Brazil, fought hard, lived up to their history, and pushed the final to the limit. In the end, however, Arsenal’s superior quality and investment made the difference as the English side won 3–2 after extra time and lifted the Champions Cup, the first women’s world title organized by FIFA.
The final took place on Sunday afternoon (February 1) at the Emirates Stadium in London, the home of Arsenal FC.
The Europeans struck first. In the 14th minute, after a defensive mistake by Corinthians, goalkeeper Lelê saved Russo’s initial effort, but Smith pounced on the rebound and sent the ball into the net.
Arsenal’s lead did not last long. Six minutes later, Andressa Alves delivered a corner kick, and Gabi Zanotti headed toward goal. Arsenal’s goalkeeper made the save, but the ball had already crossed the line before Belén Aquino could finish, bringing Corinthians level. After chances at both ends, the first half ended tied at 1–1.
In the second half of regulation time, the pattern remained the same: Arsenal enjoying more possession and creating more scoring opportunities. In the 12th minute, Wubben-Moy headed home to put the English side back in front, making it 2–1.
Staying true to their tradition of grit and resilience, the Brabas withstood the pressure and earned a penalty in stoppage time after a VAR review. Vic Albuquerque stepped up and converted in the 50th minute, levelling the match at 2–2 and forcing extra time.
Extra time ultimately decided the final. After Duda Sampaio lost possession in midfield, Foord took advantage of a quick counterattack and finished clinically to seal the 3–2 victory for Arsenal.
In addition to the trophy, Arsenal earned US$2.3 million (around R$11.9 million at the current exchange rate). Corinthians took home US$1 million (approximately R$5.2 million), figures that set a new financial record for the women’s game.
“I feel immense pride in the entire team and the work we’ve built together. We’ve won tough battles, but the work doesn’t stop,” said Corinthians full back Tamires to website MeuTimão after the game. “As I always say, we feel every result because we live and breathe Corinthians every day; we love this jersey, and our goal is always to place it at the highest point on the podium. I am very proud of everything we have accomplished.”
Corinthians beat New York’s Gotham FC, the 2024-2025 CONCACAF W Champions Cup, 1-0 in a semifinal after Gabi Zanotti scored in the second half.