Chelsea Defeats Real Madrid 3-2

Chelsea began their Women’s Champions League campaign with a 3-2 victory over Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge, though the performance left room for improvement. Sonia Bompastor’s side took the lead in the second minute when Sjoeke Nusken’s header deflected off Sheila Garcia and found the net. Chelsea doubled their advantage within half an hour as Guro Reiten calmly converted a penalty, awarded after Nusken was fouled in the box.

Despite the early dominance, Real Madrid responded before half-time, capitalizing on Chelsea’s defensive lapse as Alba Redondo scored past goalkeeper Zecira Musovic, who had replaced Hannah Hampton shortly before kickoff due to illness. Chelsea regained control early in the second half when Mayra Ramirez’s looping header made it 3-1. Real Madrid fought back again, as substitute Linda Caicedo scored to make it 3-2.

Her goal set up a tense finish for Chelsea. Chelsea, semi-finalists in the competition for the last two seasons managed to hold on for the win, despite Real Madrid’s persistent pressure. The victory places Chelsea second in Group B, level on three points with FC Twente, who defeated Celtic 2-0 in the other group match. The Blues, eager to win their first Champions League title, were far from their best.

Manager Bompastor, brought in for her European pedigree, acknowledged that a 10-day break before the match had disrupted their preparation. Despite this, Chelsea’s quick start gave them enough of an edge to secure the win. While not a commanding performance, Chelsea showed resilience winning even without hitting top form.