Glentoran Women Power Past FC Pyunik (W) 4-2 in UEFA Women's Champions League

A dominant second-half display propelled Glentoran Women to a convincing 4-2 victory over FC Pyunik (W) in the first leg of their UEFA Women's Champions League qualifier on July 25, 2026. The match at The Oval in Belfast saw the Northern Irish champions take a significant step toward the next qualifying round.

Fast Start Propels Glentoran Ahead

Glentoran wasted no time asserting their authority. Inside 10 minutes, striker Kerry Beattie opened the scoring with a powerful header from a corner. The home side continued to press and found a second goal in the 22nd minute when midfielder Chloe McCarron curled a stunning free kick over the wall and into the top corner. Pyunik struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Glentoran's attack but managed to pull one back before half-time through Ani Ghukasyan, who slotted home after a defensive mix-up.

Second Half: Clinical Finishing Seals the Win

The visitors started the second half with renewed energy and equalized in the 52nd minute via a well-struck volley from Mariam Stepanyan, making it 2-2 and silencing the home crowd. But Glentoran showed their champion pedigree. Manager Mick McDermott made tactical adjustments, and his team responded. Beattie restored the lead in the 67th minute with a composed finish from inside the box, and substitute Emily Wilson added a fourth in stoppage time, latching onto a through ball and beating the goalkeeper one-on-one.

Key Takeaways for Both Sides

The 4-2 result gives Glentoran a two-goal cushion heading into the second leg, but Pyunik's away goals will make the tie still competitive. Glentoran's attacking depth, particularly Beattie's brace and McCarron's set-piece threat, proved decisive. For FC Pyunik, the fightback showed resilience, but defensive lapses at crucial moments cost them dearly.

• Glentoran Women: Kerry Beattie (10', 67'), Chloe McCarron (22'), Emily Wilson (90+3')
• FC Pyunik (W): Ani Ghukasyan (38'), Mariam Stepanyan (52')