Arsenal 4-1 London City Lionesses: Olivia Smith stars as Gunners fightback to beat newcomers

It was an exciting day for Arsenal supporters - as many who had not been able to travel to Lisbon for the Champions League final win over Barcelona got the chance to see the trophy for the first time.

England captain Leah Williamson, wearing a leg brace because of an injury she picked up in the Euro 2025 final, paraded the trophy before kick-off and then took her seat in the dugout to watch Arsenal's season opener.

There was intrigue around their opponents – who have brought in 17 signings since promotion – but Arsenal reminded everyone why they are European champions.

It did not got to plan initially, with young Arsenal defender Reid bringing down London City Lionesses captain Asllani and giving away an early spot-kick.

Asllani's goal sparked a reaction and that was when the world's first £1m female player exploded on to the scene.

Smith's arrival had been hotly anticipated after an impressive debut season in the WSL with Liverpool and the Canada international did not waste time proving she can handle the pressure of the price tag, firing an exquisite long-range effort past goalkeeper Elene Lete.

She was busy throughout, running at the London City Lionesses' backline and linking up nicely with striker Alessia Russo.

After volleying another effort inches wide, she came off to a standing ovation, already an Arsenal favourite after 61 minutes wearing the shirt.

A big occasion would not be the same without Kelly's contribution too – the England forward made her move to Arsenal permanent when she signed from Manchester City in the summer and started her WSL campaign with a goal before half-time.

Described as the WSL's disruptors, London City Lionesses arrived at Emirates Stadium with nobody knowing what to expect. But those who saw their opening match will now have a good idea.

Jocelyn Precheur's side, who earned promotion to the WSL this season, have ripped up the usual order of things in women's football.

They are an independently owned club, with no ties to a male counterpart and funded by wealthy American businesswoman Michele Kang.

In addition to the 17 arrivals, 11 players left during a frantic summer. Debutants at Emirates Stadium included England forward Nikita Parris, ex-Manchester United captain Katie Zelem and Italy centre-back Elena Linari.

Even without deadline day arrival Grace Geyoro, whose transfer went through too late for her to play in the opener, there was still plenty of positives for London City Lionesses.

Asllani captained the side to WSL 2 success last season and showed why she is such an integral figure, earning the penalty by drawing in Reid's challenge, then coolly stepping up to slot the ball past goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar from the spot.

It was a goal that momentarily knocked the stuffing out of Arsenal, proving London City Lionesses really mean business in the WSL, but ultimately they did not have enough to overcome the champions of Europe.

The message? Be wary of them.

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