Chelsea has advanced to the league phase of the Women’s Champions League following a 1-0 triumph over Real Sociedad, sealing a comprehensive 6-2 aggregate victory in their third-round qualifying matchup. The pivotal moment came in the 54th minute when Keira Walsh capitalized on a corner, decisively striking the ball into the net to extinguish any lingering hopes of a comeback from Real Sociedad.
Entering the second leg with a substantial 5-2 lead from the initial encounter, Chelsea faced a formidable challenge as Real Sociedad defended with discipline and organization. Despite their advantage, Sonia Bompastor’s team struggled to exhibit their usual attacking flair in San Sebastián. The home side’s resolute defense made it difficult for Chelsea to create clear scoring opportunities in the first half, with Ellie Carpenter emerging as the primary threat from the right flank, though her deliveries went unconverted.
Aggie Beever-Jones came close to breaking the deadlock shortly before Walsh’s goal, but her attempt was comfortably saved by Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper, Julia Arrula. Moments later, Walsh’s decisive strike ensured Chelsea’s dominance in the tie, effectively securing their progression to the next stage of the competition.
In preparation for their imminent Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa, Bompastor opted to rotate her squad, offering valuable playing time to various team members and opportunities for younger players to gain experience. This included the debuts of new signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni from the bench, while 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie also saw action in the final moments of the match.
While Chelsea’s performances across both legs may not have been entirely convincing, the primary objective of qualifying for the Champions League league phase was successfully accomplished. This result provides Bompastor’s squad with crucial competitive match experience ahead of their domestic campaign. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will transition into the Europa League after failing to overturn their first-leg deficit.
