Caitlin Foord Shines as Arsenal Cruise Past Rangers in Women's Champions League Qualifier

Caitlin Foord stole the show with a remarkable four-goal performance as Arsenal thrashed Rangers 5-0 in their opening Women's Champions League qualifying tie at Meadow Park.

The Australian forward opened the scoring with a header from debutant Mariona Caldentey's cross, before adding a second after the break. Foord then completed her hat-trick with a stunning volley, and capped off her display with a fourth goal in the final minute. Arsenal captain Kim Little also converted a late penalty to round off the scoring.

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall, who is keen to avoid a repeat of last season’s shock exit, was delighted with the team's performance. “When you see us play today, I enjoyed that because you see a connected team that defends together and works really hard,” Eidevall said. “It is an enjoyable team to watch, an even more enjoyable team to work with and we started the competitive season in a good way.”

This season, Arsenal are determined to make it past the qualifying rounds, having been knocked out by Paris FC last year. Eidevall's pre-season preparations, including a tour in the United States, seem to have paid off as the Gunners dispatched Rangers with ease.

Rangers, who had boasted an impressive record in the SWPL with 43 goals scored and none conceded in their opening five league matches, were overwhelmed by Arsenal’s fluid and relentless attacking play. The Scottish side was brought back down to earth by the Gunners’ superior passing and movement.

New signing Mariona Caldentey, who joined Arsenal from Barcelona and is a Ballon d'Or nominee, was instrumental in midfield, linking well with Little and creating opportunities. Foord’s standout performance was a result of her sharp movement and clinical finishing, stepping up in the absence of injured England winger Beth Mead.

Reflecting on the match, Foord said, “I enjoyed it. I was extremely excited to get back out there in Arsenal colours. Having the type of players we have on the ball to put those crosses in like that, I just knew I had to get on the end of them. I’m happy to see a few go in!”

For Rangers, it was a sobering experience but one from which they can learn. Assistant coach Jay Bradford acknowledged the challenge of facing one of England’s top teams. “People will look at the scoreline and think one thing. But if you were here - we were in a game. We just have to learn from moments. It can't go from two, to three, to four, that quickly,” Bradford said. “It’s been an experience for the players and one they will learn from.”

Arsenal’s next challenge comes against Rosenborg on Saturday (19:30 BST), as they aim to secure their place in the second round of qualifying and continue their quest for European glory.