Alessia Russo produced a stunning first-half hat-trick as Arsenal swept aside north London rivals Tottenham to climb into second place in the Women’s Super League.
The England striker struck twice within the opening seven minutes at the Emirates Stadium, heading home from a corner before calmly rounding the goalkeeper to slot in her second and give the Gunners early control.
Tottenham briefly responded when Frida Maanum turned the ball into her own net under pressure from Cathinka Tandberg, but Arsenal quickly regained their cushion.
A costly mistake from Spurs goalkeeper Lize Kop handed Russo her third, as she pounced on a loose pass to fire home and complete her first hat-trick for the club.
Arsenal showed no signs of fatigue following their midweek Champions League success, taking control from the outset.
Russo’s opener came from a pinpoint delivery by Katie McCabe, while her second was created by a clever through ball from Olivia Smith.
The hosts continued to threaten, and Caitlin Foord added a fourth just after the hour mark with a composed turn and finish to put the result beyond doubt.
Tottenham substitute Beth England offered a brief spark, scoring with a powerful strike after being denied moments earlier by goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar.
However, any hopes of a comeback were short-lived as Stina Blackstenius raced through in stoppage time to add a fifth and cap a dominant display.
The victory marks an 11th consecutive win in all competitions for Renee Slegers’s side, continuing an impressive run that includes a crucial Champions League win over Chelsea Women.
Arsenal now sit above both Chelsea and Manchester United Women in the league standings.
While catching leaders Manchester City Women remains unlikely, they are firmly in contention for a European qualification spot.
With confidence high and attacking firepower in abundance, Arsenal are hitting top form at a crucial stage of the season.
