#LunionSuiteExcellence
On Saturday, April 19, Haitian football sensation Melchie Dumornay, affectionately known as #Corventina, delivered a defining performance in Olympique Lyonnais’ 2-1 victory over Arsenal during the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final. Her match-winning goal, scored in front of a crowd of 40,045 at the Emirates Stadium, is another remarkable chapter in the 21-year-old’s rising legacy.
Lyon took the lead early in the 17th minute with a strike from Kadidiatou Diani, confirmed after a VAR review overturned an offside call. Arsenal fought back late in the game, equalizing in the 78th minute through a penalty from Mariona Caldentey after Lyon’s goalkeeper Christiane Endler fouled Leah Williamson.
But just four minutes later, Dumornay showcased her brilliance. Set up by Amel Majri, she surged past Arsenal’s defense and calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger, restoring Lyon’s lead and securing the Visa Player of the Match award.
At just 21, Dumornay has emerged as one of football’s most exciting young talents. Her incredible poise and skill under pressure have made her a global rising star, and her success is a source of immense pride for Haiti and the Haitian diaspora. She continues to inspire as a symbol of excellence, breaking barriers for young athletes from the Caribbean.
This goal adds to an already impressive Champions League résumé. With at least three goals and two assists across the semi-final stages of the 2024 and 2025 campaigns, Dumornay now boasts five goals in the 2024–25 Champions League season, playing a pivotal role for Lyon, the competition’s record eight-time champions.
As talks swirl about her potential as a future Ballon d’Or contender, Dumornay remains grounded and focused. Her impact goes far beyond the pitch, resonating with young players worldwide who see in her a beacon of hope and possibility.
The second leg of the semi-final is set for April 27, 2025, at Parc Olympique Lyonnais, with a ticket to the final in Lisbon on May 24 at stake. Regardless of the outcome, Dumornay has already made history—and her journey is just getting started.
