Lindsey Heaps’ European journey concluded with a defeat against FC Barcelona in the Champions League final, a match where she initially believed she had opened the scoring for OL Lyonnes. The midfielder will not compete in the tournament again as she prepares for her move to Denver next week.

Just three weeks prior, Heaps had experienced a similar moment of anticipation, thinking she had swiftly put OL Lyonnes ahead against Arsenal, only for VAR to intervene. While that decision ultimately didn’t alter the positive outcome of that encounter, the scenario was starkly different in Oslo. Around the quarter-hour mark, the American star was convinced she had given Les Fenottes the lead, expertly following up on a header parried by Wendie Renard. Many shared her belief, but once more, the video assistant referee stepped in, disallowing the goal for a marginal offside. By mere inches, the entire narrative of the Champions League final could have shifted, leading to a far more jubilant conclusion for OL Lyonnes and Heaps.

“Proud to have been part of this club”

Upon the final whistle, the weight of the defeat was palpable for the midfielder. Beyond suffering a second continental final loss after the 2024 edition, the Lyonnes number 10 was also bidding farewell to the competition. With her impending transfer to Denver this summer, Lindsey Heaps had hoped to cap her tenure with a second European triumph, following their 2022 victory. This ambition, however, remained unfulfilled for the captain of the American national team. “Football is football, and sometimes things just don’t go your way. I’ve played in many finals, winning some and losing others. All credit goes to Barça; they are one of the best teams globally, and it’s always a pleasure to test ourselves against them. Above all, I am immensely proud of our team, proud of this club, and proud to have represented OL Lyonnes,” she articulated following the match.

Lindsey Heaps now has one final fixture remaining with OL Lyonnes, facing Paris FC on Friday, where she will aim to conclude her time in Lyon with a potential ninth title for the club.