Arsenal Ladies Book Spot In Final

Arsenal Ladies 2 (Ohno 16' 58') - 0 Okayama Yunogo Belle

As we mentioned last week with the announcement of Yael Averbuch's guest player status, the Arsenal Ladies were heading to Japan to play in the International Women's Cup Chamionship. They had a first round bye, and would be playing the winner of the opening round match between Westfield W-League champions the Melbourne Victory, and Japanese Nadeshiko League Champs Okayama Yunogo Belle. The Nadeshiko champs demolished the Victory 5-0, and set up a semifinal with the Gunners.

With a pair of goals from Japanese international Shinobu Ohno, the Arsenal Ladies rather easily earned themselves a spot in the tournament's final. Perhaps the most exciting thing was the midfield combinations of Yael Averbuch, Lianne Sanderson, and Jordan Nobbs. While these players more than likely won't be starring in the midfield together outside of this tournament, it was still incredible to see what Arsenal can do with a solid midfield, something we didn't see much of last FA WSL season.

The final is this Saturday and the Arsenal Ladies will be playing the South American Champions Sao Jose, who defeated Urawa Red Diamonds 1-0 in their semifinal. No team from England or any South American country has every won the tournament, with the last champions hailing from France and Japan (Lyon and INAC Kobe respectively).