Brighton Stun Arsenal to Reach Women's FA Cup Semi-Finals as Liverpool Pip Charlton in Extra Time
Brighton delivered a stunning upset by knocking out 14-time winners Arsenal in the Women's FA Cup quarter-finals, securing a 2-0 victory at Meadow Park. The Seagulls' triumph came as a major shock against the European champions, who were favourites going into the match.
Brighton's Dominant Performance Against Arsenal
In a closely contested first half, Arsenal thought they had taken the lead when Stina Blackstenius found the net, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the build-up. Brighton capitalised on this momentum shift early in the second half. In the 48th minute, Madison Haley expertly controlled a precise pass from Fran Kirby and fired past Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar to give Brighton the lead.
The Seagulls doubled their advantage in the 63rd minute when Kirby turned provider again, delivering a corner that was powerfully headed home by Caitlin Hayes. Her effort soared over Van Domselaar, sealing a memorable victory for the underdogs and sending them through to the semi-finals.
Liverpool's Dramatic Extra-Time Winner
In another thrilling quarter-final clash, Liverpool booked their spot in the semi-finals with a dramatic 1-0 win over Charlton, secured deep into extra time. The match was deadlocked until the 115th minute when substitute Zara Shaw, an 18-year-old returning from a year-long injury layoff, scored the decisive goal.
Shaw bundled the ball home following a chaotic goalmouth scramble, which saw Jenna Clark hit the woodwork twice in quick succession. This late strike ensured Liverpool's progression in a tense and hard-fought encounter at the Valley.
Both results set up exciting semi-final fixtures, with Brighton and Liverpool now just one step away from the Women's FA Cup final. The upsets highlight the growing competitiveness in women's football, where underdogs can triumph against established giants.
