Arsenal Women 2-1 RM Women: Russo strikes again as Gunners forward nets another

Alessia Russo was once again the thorn in Real Madrid's side as the Arsenal forward's double saw the Gunners come from behind to win 2-1 in the Women's Champions League.

The England forward was again at the double having scored twice in the home leg of Arsenal's quarter-final win over the same opponents last season.

Arsenal were desperate for a result against the previously unbeaten Liga F side, with their Champions League campaign threatening to fall away as their WSL title hopes have in recent weeks.

But it appeared the Gunners may be heading for a fourth straight game without victory in all competitions when their former midfielder Caroline Weir smartly volleyed home an opener for Real Madrid shortly before half-time.

There was no immediate sign of an Arsenal response after the break but they slowly began to show more energy and intent, with Olivia Smith's direct running appearing to spur on her team-mates.

It was her opposite number, Chloe Kelly, whose cross was looped home by Russo to level, with the Gunners striker again proving too hot to handle for the Spanish side.

She made it another brace 14 minutes later when substitute Beth Mead's corner found her inside the six-yard box and she made no mistake to give Arsenal the lead on the night.

That proved enough for Renee Slegers' side to see out a nervous but much-deserved victory, to ease some of the growing pressure on their season - and significantly improve their hopes of qualifying from the Champions League group phase