Arsenal wins inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup, defeats Corinthians in extra time

Arsenal won the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup on Sunday, defeating Corinthians 3-2 in extra time at the Emirates Stadium in London. The victory marked the first edition of the tournament, which was created by FIFA as a women's equivalent to the men's Intercontinental Cup.

Caitlin Foord scored the decisive goal in the 104th minute. The Australian winger, who entered the match as a substitute in the 64th minute, finished a breakaway opportunity that began when fellow substitute Frida Manuum won the ball in midfield.

Arsenal opened the scoring in the 15th minute through winger Olivia Smith, who reacted quickest after a rebound. The goal came after Corinthians defender Letícia Teles misdirected a pass back to her goalkeeper, allowing Stina Blackstenius to shoot from close range and Smith to finish the loose ball.

The tournament, which began in October, brought together the six best clubs from each continental confederation. The final four matches took place in London from January 28 through Sunday. Arsenal, the current European champions, qualified for the competition after winning the UEFA Women's Champions League in Lisbon last May.

Corinthians reached the final after eliminating Gotham in the semifinals. The Brazilian club, which won the most recent CAF Women's Champions League title, advanced to the championship match despite the upset victory over the North American side.

Arsenal received €2.3 million (approximately $2.3 million) in prize money for winning the inaugural competition. Corinthians earned €845,000 (approximately $1 million) as runners-up. The prize money represents a record for women's club football.

The victory gave Arsenal their second major trophy in less than a year, following their European championship success in May 2025.