Arsenal and Corinthians Set for Inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup Final

The inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, a new global competition featuring the champions from each of the six continental confederations, is set to conclude with a final match between Arsenal and Corinthians on February 1, 2026, at Emirates Stadium in London. This tournament, which began in October 2025, aims to elevate women's club football and offers a record prize pool, with the winner receiving $2.3 million.

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Arsenal, representing Europe after winning the UEFA Women’s Champions League, secured their place in the final by decisively defeating AS FAR Rabat 6-0 in the semifinals. The Gunners showcased their dominance with early goals from Stina Blackstenius, Frida Maanum, and Mariona Caldentey, followed by a brace from Alessia Russo after her introduction as a substitute. Arsenal controlled 65% of possession and outshot AS FAR 17-3, demonstrating their tactical superiority.

Corinthians reached the final by overcoming Gotham FC, the NWSL champions, in a closely contested semifinal. The Brazilian side's victory was marked by a late goal from midfielder Zanotti, who scored in the 83rd minute, sealing a 1-0 win. Despite Gotham's 66% possession and 21 shots, they struggled to convert opportunities into goals, with coach Juan Carlos Amoros acknowledging their dominance in play but lack of finishing.

This final not only represents a clash between two of the top clubs in women's football but also highlights the growing competitiveness of the sport globally. The match is particularly significant for Corinthians, as it marks their first appearance in a global club competition, while Arsenal aims to solidify their status as a powerhouse in women's football.

The FIFA Women's Champions Cup explained

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the importance of the tournament, stating, "Women's football has reached new heights at national team level, and now it's time for global competitions that showcase the best clubs from around the world." Meanwhile, Gotham's Amoros expressed pride in reaching the semifinals, noting, "It would be a dream come true for us to be in this position two games away."

Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, some critics have raised concerns about the scheduling and the potential impact on domestic leagues. Gotham FC, for instance, is currently in their offseason, which may affect their performance against teams that are in mid-season form. Additionally, the decision to hold the tournament in London has been scrutinized, as it provides Arsenal with a significant home advantage.

What is the new FIFA Women's Champions Cup?

The final match between Arsenal and Corinthians will take place on February 1, 2026, at Emirates Stadium, with both teams vying for the prestigious title and the accompanying financial rewards. The third-place playoff between Gotham FC and AS FAR will occur earlier that day, providing both teams an opportunity to secure a notable finish in the tournament.

The FIFA Women's Champions Cup explained

• “It was a dream come true,” — Zanotti, Midfielder, Corinthians

• “The team did really well in every aspect apart from scoring goals. I think we dominated,” — Juan Carlos Amoros, Coach, Gotham FC

• “Women's football has reached new heights at national team level and now it's time for global competitions that showcase the best clubs from around the world.” — Gianni Infantino, FIFA President

What is the new FIFA Women's Champions Cup?

• “It would be a dream come true for us to be in this position two games away,” — Juan Carlos Amoros, Coach, Gotham FC