Arsenal Women squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Paris FC in the Women's Champions League on Wednesday night, undone by one of the most bizarre moments of the season.
The Gunners led 2-0 through goals from Alessia Russo and Georgia Stanway and looked in control until Clara Mateo pulled one back for the hosts. Then, in the 86th minute with Arsenal leading 2-1, goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez rolled the ball to Leah Williamson, who picked it up with her hand preparing to take a goal kick — inside her own penalty area during open play.
The referee immediately pointed to the spot, and Maeline Mendy converted to level the score. Russo admitted afterward it was an unintended mistake but said Arsenal had let Paris back into the game long before that moment. Head coach Renee Slegers did not attend the post-match press conference, sending her assistant instead.
It is the first dropped points of Arsenal's European campaign and extends a run of frustrating results.
