Barcelona Advances to Women’s Champions League Final

Barcelona secured their spot in the Women’s Champions League final for the sixth time after defeating Chelsea 4-1 in the second leg of their semi-final clash, resulting in an 8-2 aggregate victory on Sunday.

The Spanish team aims to clinch their third consecutive Champions League title. They convincingly overcame Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and are now set to face either Arsenal or Lyon in the final.

Lyon, who previously defeated Barcelona in the 2022 final, currently hold a 2-1 advantage leading into their second leg match on Sunday.

After trailing 4-1 from their previous encounter at Johan Cruyff Stadium last Sunday, Chelsea was outplayed by Barcelona in the first half.

Aitana Bonmati, a two-time Ballon d’Or recipient, initiated the scoring with a remarkable run through Chelsea’s defense, culminating in a powerful shot into the net.

Ewa Pajor extended their lead just four minutes before halftime. Claudia Pina further solidified their advantage shortly afterward, effectively ending Chelsea’s hopes of a comeback.

A miscommunication between Niamh Charles and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton in the 90th minute allowed Salma Paralluelo to score, emphasizing Chelsea’s defeat. Wieke Kaptein’s late goal offered minimal consolation for Chelsea.

Chelsea will now concentrate on their pursuit of a sixth consecutive Women’s Super League title, their first under coach Sonia Bompastor. This achievement is possible with a victory against Manchester United on Wednesday, contingent on favorable outcomes in other matches.

“To compete against Europe’s top team, peak performance is essential across all areas. We fell short in these aspects for various reasons,” Bompastor commented.

“Barcelona is a formidable team, but the margin isn’t vast. They were clinical in both games, while my team wasn’t.”

Bonmati initiated the play leading to the opening goal in the 25th minute from her own half. Chelsea’s Millie Bright attempted a slide tackle but missed, granting Bonmati a clear path for a precise finish from a sharp angle.

The visitors struck again after 41 minutes when Charles was outmaneuvered on the right by Caroline Graham, who crossed the ball for Pajor to score.

Pina dashed Chelsea’s hopes of a comeback in the 43rd minute, extending the lead. The forward found space on the edge of the area, setting up a curling shot that hit the inside of Hampton’s post before going in.

Paralluelo capitalized on Charles’ hesitation, securing the fourth goal in the 90th minute, while Kaptein’s late goal provided little relief for Chelsea.