Arsenal secured a 3-0 victory over Bristol City in Sunday’s Women’s FA Cup action, but the win came with concern after forward Olivia Smith left the match on a stretcher.
Smith suffered a clash of heads early in the second half, with the incident causing a lengthy stoppage plus 14 minutes of added time. Medical staff fitted the 21-year-old with a neck brace before carrying her off the pitch, as fans gave Smith a standing ovation.
The Canada international has been crucial for the Gunners this season, ranking as the team’s second-joint top scorer across all competitions with eight goals. She made history in July 2025, transferring in from Liverpool for £1 million and becoming women’s football’s first seven-figure player.
Arsenal controlled the match despite the injury scare. Longtime captain Kim Little opened the scoring in the 25th minute, before Victoria Pelova doubled Arsenal’s advantage in the 61st minute. Frida Maanum later sealed the win with a 69th-minute strike.
The victory sends Arsenal into the FA Cup quarterfinals as one of the tournament favorites. The club has won the Women’s FA Cup 14 times in its history — more than any other WSL team.
Head coach Renée Slegers will await updates on Smith’s condition before the team’s next match. The injury comes at a critical time as Arsenal competes across multiple competitions, including the Women’s Super League and Champions League.
Fans will hope Smith recovers quickly, as her absence would be a significant blow to the Gunners’ attacking options.
The club provided no immediate update on the severity of Smith’s injury following the match.
