Arsenal defeated KU Leuven 4-0 in Belgium in the first leg of the Women’s Champions League knockout round to advance to the quarter-finals.

The Gunners put in a thoroughly professional performance, scoring two goals in each half, to clinch victory and next week’s second leg looks set to be a foregone conclusion, barring one of the biggest shocks in the competition’s history.

Leuven, looking to avenge their 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the league stage, initially frustrated the visitors who were unable to break down their compact defensive shape.

But after Frieda Manum’s header ripped through the home defense midway through the first quarter, the Gunners posed a constant threat with every attack and their lead deservedly doubled when Olivia Smith scored her fourth goal in as many games from Chloe Kelly’s low cross.

Leuven posed an occasional threat on the break but managed just one shot before half-time and struggled even more against a rejuvenated Arsenal side after the break.

Manum’s second goal seven minutes into the second period made the game a contest as she turned back Caitlin Foord’s cutback from close range before substitute Alessia Russo simply finished the same goal off Smilla Holmberg.

Slegs: Players did everything I asked of them

arsenal head coach Renee Sleggs:

“The players did exactly everything I asked and that is very valuable as a coach. I believe in this team and these players.

“We wanted Leuven to play a more defensive approach and we prepared accordingly. Everyone understood their role.

“Leuven performed well and played more directly than in the December game. They have strong dribbling and physical players, but this is still the same team we played against last time and we know what to expect.”