For four long years, OL Lyonnes (formerly known as OL féminin) has been chasing the Women’s Champions League trophy. As the most decorated club in the competition’s history with eight titles, the French side is built for glory—but a single obstacle has stood in its way for six consecutive seasons: the relentless FC Barcelona.

The Catalan giants have dominated the tournament in recent years, reaching six straight finals (excluding the COVID-affected year) and securing three victories (2021, 2023, 2024). Their rivalry with Lyon has reached a fever pitch, with two high-stakes clashes in the final: a triumph for Lyon in 2022 and Barcelona’s latest triumph in 2024. Now, the two powerhouses meet again this Saturday, May 23 at 6:00 PM in Oslo, Norway, in what promises to be a battle of titans.

OL Lyonnes eyes historic quadruple with Champions League glory

This season, Lyon is chasing more than just a ninth Champions League title—they’re aiming for a historic quadruple. Under the guidance of former Barcelona coach Jonatan Giráldez, the team has already claimed the Coupe de la Ligue (March 14) and the Coupe de France (May 10). With the Arkema Première Ligue title still up for grabs (against Paris FC on May 29 at Groupama Stadium) and the Champions League final in sight, Lyon is on the brink of rewriting history.

“We set out to reach all four finals, and we’ve done it. Now, we want all four trophies. We aim to send a message to Europe: we’re back, stronger than ever, and we’re making France proud,” declares Selma Bacha, the 25-year-old Lyon full-back. Her captain, Wendie Renard—holder of 41 trophies with Lyon—echoes the sentiment: “We’re writing history here, crafting something extraordinary. But only the winners will be remembered.”

“We have a squad packed with talent, and winning trophies is what this club is built for,” adds Melchie Dumornay, the 22-year-old midfielder, recently crowned the season’s best player twice. “We want to showcase our evolution, prove that Lyon has adapted, and surpass our last meeting with Barcelona.”

A ninth Champions League title would further cement Lyon’s status as Europe’s most successful women’s club. Ada Hegerberg, the first woman to win the Ballon d’Or in 2018, reflects: “At times, outsiders made it look effortless. But it was never easy. It’s incredible that we’re back in a final, especially after reshaping the squad and saying goodbye to club legends. I’ve always believed Lyon is the best place to win trophies.”

Oslo final: a Norwegian nod to Lyon’s legacy

Beyond the statistics and accolades, this final carries a deeper significance for two of Lyon’s Norwegian stars. With the match taking place in Oslo, Ada Hegerberg and Ingrid Engen see it as a chance to bring home a trophy and showcase the best of women’s football to their home nation.

“I can’t wait to return to Norway with my team—especially to highlight legends like Wendie Renard,” Hegerberg shares. “She’s one of the greatest players in women’s football history, and I want to display her class and elegance to my people.”

Ingrid Engen, who swapped Barcelona for Lyon last summer, adds: “There’s something magical about stepping onto the field in our home nation, the same pitch we’ve played on for Norway. This final means everything.”

For Lyon fans unable to travel to Oslo, the match will be broadcast live on a giant screen at Place des Terreaux, where the club will host its first-ever fan zone to celebrate the occasion.