Chelsea has advanced to the league phase of the Women’s Champions League following a narrow 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad, concluding a comprehensive 6-2 aggregate success in their third-round qualifying matchup. Keira Walsh was the standout player, netting the sole goal of the match in the 54th minute. Her strike, coming off a corner, extinguished any lingering hopes Real Sociedad might have had for a comeback.
Entering the second leg with a solid 5-2 lead from the first encounter, Chelsea found themselves challenged by a determined Real Sociedad team in San Sebastián. Despite holding a comfortable cushion, Sonia Bompastor’s squad struggled to find their attacking rhythm, encountering a well-organized and disciplined defense from the hosts. While Chelsea faced difficulties creating clear chances in the first half, Ellie Carpenter emerged as a key threat from the right flank, though her efforts couldn’t be converted into goals.
Despite Real Sociedad’s staunch defense, Chelsea’s persistence paid off in the second half. Aggie Beever-Jones nearly found the net shortly before Walsh’s decisive strike, but her attempt was easily handled by Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper, Julia Arrula. Walsh’s subsequent goal effectively sealed Chelsea’s dominance in the tie, granting them a secure passage to the league phase.
With the Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa on the horizon, Bompastor opted to rotate her squad, offering valuable playing time to various team members and a chance for younger talents to shine. Among the new faces were Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni, who made their debuts from the bench, while 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie also saw action in the final minutes of the match.
Although Chelsea’s performances across both legs were not entirely convincing, the ultimate aim of qualifying for the Champions League league phase was accomplished. This outcome also provides Bompastor’s team with competitive minutes ahead of their domestic campaign. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will continue their European journey in the Europa League, following their inability to overturn the deficit from the first leg.