Chelsea secured their place in the league phase of the Champions League, ensuring that three teams from the Women’s Super League will participate, thanks to a second-half goal from Keira Walsh against Real Sociedad. This goal added to their three-goal advantage established in the first leg of the third-round qualifying match.
The match, held at Wimbledon’s Cherry Red Records stadium, saw Chelsea claim a 5-2 victory over the Spanish team, marking their first appearance at the venue. Despite a shaky start that required them to recover from an early deficit, Chelsea dominated the tie. However, their performance was not particularly impressive, a trend that carried into the return leg, leading Real Sociedad to drop down to the Europa League.
Coach Sonia Bompastor, back from a one-match suspension, implemented four changes for the away match in San Sebastián, likely keeping an eye on their upcoming Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa. Veerle Buurman, who scored Chelsea’s second goal in the first leg, was placed on the bench alongside Katie McCabe, Sjoeke Nüsken, and Alyssa Thompson. Among the players brought into the starting lineup was Lexi Potter, who had previously netted a goal in her league debut for Chelsea in a 2-1 victory against Brighton in March.
Real Sociedad made only two adjustments to their lineup, but the most significant change was in their coaching staff. Between the two crucial Champions League qualifying matches, Arturo Ruiz, the manager of Real Sociedad, departed and was appointed as the new head coach of Brighton following the unexpected exit of Dario Vidosic. Brighton’s decision to recruit Ruiz was a surprise, prompting Real Sociedad to quickly appoint Gorka Álvarez, who had previously managed their reserves and served as an assistant coach, to lead the team in their Liga F opener against Logroño, which ended in a 2-0 defeat, as well as in the second leg against Chelsea.
For Álvarez, the challenge was formidable, as many observers did not expect Real Sociedad to overcome a three-goal deficit against a formidable European opponent. Nevertheless, fostering a positive atmosphere and boosting team morale were crucial objectives for him. Real Sociedad performed admirably, managing to contain Chelsea’s attacks until Walsh found the net from a corner in the 54th minute, effectively extinguishing any hopes of a comeback.
Before that moment, Chelsea struggled to create significant scoring opportunities, with Real Sociedad mirroring their disciplined defensive display from the first half of the initial leg. Ellie Carpenter was Chelsea’s standout player, positioned further up the pitch ahead of Lucy Bronze, but the team was unable to capitalize on her crosses. Walsh had a weak shot that was easily saved by goalkeeper Julia Arrula in the first half. Aggie Beever-Jones also missed a chance to score just before Walsh’s goal, as her attempt was too straightforward for Arrula.
Bompastor, known for her high standards, may have been dissatisfied with the quality of play in both matches. However, the primary objective of advancing to the league phase was achieved, which is pivotal for a team eager for European success. Ultimately, the match result was convincing, even if the performance left something to be desired. Chelsea also took the opportunity to introduce new signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni, along with giving minutes to promising 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie.
These players gained valuable experience ahead of their WSL season kickoff against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Bompastor expressed satisfaction with the opportunity for young players to participate in a Champions League game, highlighting the positive impact of such experiences. She conveyed her excitement about qualifying for the Champions League this season, stating, “The goal was for us to qualify, which is what we have done.”
On Friday, September 4, at 1 PM, Suzanne Wrack will engage with readers during a Q&A session about the upcoming WSL season for Guardian Conversations.
