Chelsea has advanced to the league phase of the Women’s Champions League following a 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad, wrapping up a 6-2 aggregate win in their third-round qualifying tie. A pivotal moment came in the 54th minute when Keira Walsh scored the only goal of the match, effectively extinguishing any remaining hopes of a Real Sociedad comeback. Walsh’s strike, delivered from a corner, solidified Chelsea’s dominant position in the tie.
Entering the second leg with a 5-2 advantage, Chelsea faced a challenging encounter in San Sebastián. Despite the comfortable lead, Sonia Bompastor’s team found it difficult to play their most effective attacking game against a well-organized Real Sociedad defense. Throughout the first half, Chelsea struggled to create clear opportunities, with Ellie Carpenter emerging as the primary attacking threat from the right flank, though her crosses were not capitalized on.
Aggie Beever-Jones came close to scoring shortly before Walsh’s breakthrough, but her shot was easily saved by Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper, Julia Arrula. Walsh’s goal moments later shifted the momentum decisively in Chelsea’s favor, ensuring their progression in the tournament.
With an eye on their upcoming Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa, Bompastor utilized the match to provide valuable playing time to various squad members, including new signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni, who made their debuts from the bench. Additionally, 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie gained experience by participating in the closing stages of the game.
While Chelsea’s performance across the two legs was not wholly convincing, achieving qualification for the Champions League league phase was their primary objective. This progression not only gives Bompastor’s squad important competitive minutes but also serves as a preparatory step ahead of their domestic campaign. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad, unable to overturn the initial deficit, will shift their efforts to the Europa League.