Chelsea has successfully advanced to the league phase of the Women’s Champions League after defeating Real Sociedad 1-0, culminating in a 6-2 aggregate victory in their third-round qualifying tie. Keira Walsh delivered the crucial blow with a goal in the 54th minute, swiftly converting from a corner to extinguish any hopes of a comeback for Real Sociedad.
Going into the second leg, Chelsea held a significant 5-2 lead from the first match, yet they encountered resistance in San Sebastián. Despite their advantage, Sonia Bompastor’s team found it challenging to break through Real Sociedad’s well-organized defense, which made for a difficult contest. During the first half, Chelsea struggled to create clear scoring opportunities, with Ellie Carpenter emerging as their primary offensive threat from the right flank, although her crosses failed to yield results.
Aggie Beever-Jones nearly scored just before Walsh found the net, but her shot was easily saved by Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper Julia Arrula. Walsh’s subsequent goal gave Chelsea complete control of the match, effectively securing their place in the Champions League league phase.
In anticipation of their Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa, Bompastor rotated her squad, offering valuable playing time to several players, including new signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni, who made their debuts from the bench. Additionally, 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie was given an opportunity to gain experience in the latter stages of the game.
Although Chelsea’s performances over the two legs were not entirely convincing, they achieved their primary goal of qualifying for the Champions League league phase. This victory not only secures their spot in the competition but also provides Bompastor’s squad with competitive minutes before the domestic season kicks off. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will now shift their focus to the Europa League after failing to overturn the deficit from the first leg.