‘We’re allowed to feel empty’ – Jonas Eidevall reflects on Arsenal’s heartbreaking Women’s Champions League exit

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall says his players are “allowed to hurt and feel empty” after a Women’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Wolfsburg, but insisted they should take great pride in their efforts.

Both sides led on a dramatic night at the Emirates before Jennifer Beattie’s 75th-minute strike sent the tie to extra-time, where Pauline Bremer clinched victory in the 119th minute.

“We made it to the Champions League semi-final and lost by the tiniest of margins,” said Eidevall.

“With all the injuries we have, with all the challenges we have, I am incredibly proud.

“[We’re hurting] quite a bit It’s tough. No doubt about it, because it was a game of such fine margins and they’re not on our side.

“We’re allowed to hurt, we’re allowed to feel empty, but we’re also allowed to feel proud of our performance and for the occasion with the supporters that are magnificent, so there’s a lot of emotions.”

Arsenal’s attentions now turn back to the Women’s Super League, where they host Leicester City on Friday.

Eidevall’s side are fourth in the standings, nine points behind leaders Manchester United with two games in hand.

“We are in a tough situation on the remainder of the season both to get our feet and heads back from here, but already on Friday we have a really important game against Leicester,” Eidevall added.