Alessia Russo scores hat-trick as Arsenal defeat Benfica

Alessia Russo scored all three goals for Arsenal in a 3–0 victory against Benfica during the third matchday of the Women’s Champions League group stage. The match, held at Meadow Park, saw Russo secure a historic milestone by reaching 23 goals in the competition, surpassing the previous English record of 21 held by Fran Kirby.

Arsenal dominated the encounter with 31 shots compared to Benfica’s five. Despite the scoreline, Benfica goalkeeper Lena Pauels made 11 saves to prevent a higher margin of defeat. Russo’s goals came in the 39th minute, the 66th minute via a header, and the 79th minute from a penalty.

With this win, Arsenal moves to seven points after three matches, while Benfica remains at three points. The victory reinforces Arsenal’s position as a top contender in the tournament.