Interim manager Renee Slegers strengthened her case for the permanent Arsenal head coach role with a commanding 5-0 victory over third-placed Brighton, a performance that highlighted her leadership and tactical acumen. Slegers oversaw a dominant display from the Gunners as they dismantled Brighton, leaping to a 3-0 lead by halftime and leaving little doubt about their control over the match.
The match unfolded just hours after Nick Cushing, head coach of New York City FC’s men’s team, announced he would not be a candidate to succeed Jonas Eidevall, narrowing the spotlight on Slegers. Arsenal took an early lead when Beth Mead skillfully cut inside and struck past Brighton’s goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley. The momentum continued as Caitlin Foord doubled the advantage nine minutes later, deftly finishing Kim Little’s precise cross.
The Gunners showed no signs of slowing, with Frida Maanum making it 3-0 just 25 minutes in, curling a beautiful shot into the top corner. Although Arsenal’s next goal didn’t come until the 76th minute, substitute Lina Hurtig added to the tally by heading in from close range, followed by Alessia Russo scoring from the penalty spot in stoppage time to seal the win.
Brighton, who now hold just a one-point lead over Arsenal with a heavily impacted goal difference, endured a difficult night on both ends of the pitch. Adding to their woes, substitute Aisha Masaka suffered a concerning injury late in the game. She was stretchered off while receiving oxygen after a hard landing on her shoulder, marking a somber end to an otherwise commanding Arsenal performance.
