Chelsea has successfully advanced to the league phase of the Women’s Champions League following a narrow 1-0 win against Real Sociedad, sealing a commanding 6-2 aggregate in their third-round qualifying tie. The match’s single goal came courtesy of Keira Walsh, who found the net in the 54th minute, effectively quashing any hopes of a comeback from Real Sociedad.
Despite entering the second leg with a significant 5-2 lead from their previous encounter, Chelsea faced a stern challenge in San Sebastián. Real Sociedad’s organized and disciplined defensive approach made it difficult for Chelsea to display their usual attacking prowess. Throughout the first half, Chelsea struggled to create clear scoring opportunities, with Ellie Carpenter emerging as the primary threat from the right flank, though her crosses lacked the finishing touch.
Aggie Beever-Jones nearly put Chelsea ahead shortly before Walsh’s decisive strike, but her attempt was easily handled by goalkeeper Julia Arrula. Moments later, Walsh capitalized on a corner to give Chelsea the lead and effectively control the tie. With Chelsea’s Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa on the horizon, manager Sonia Bompastor took the opportunity to rotate her squad, allowing several players to gain valuable match experience.
New signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni made their first appearances for Chelsea, coming off the bench, while 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie also saw action in the match’s final moments. Although Chelsea’s performances over the two legs were not entirely convincing, they achieved their primary objective of securing a spot in the Champions League league phase, providing crucial competitive minutes ahead of their domestic campaign.
Real Sociedad, unable to overturn their first-leg deficit, will now compete in the Europa League. Despite the defeat, they managed to challenge Chelsea significantly, particularly with their disciplined defensive play, which tested the visitors’ resolve throughout the encounter.