3 Records Triumphant Chelsea Set Against Hapless Barcelona in UEFA Women's Champions League Upset
In a tightly contested UEFA Women's Champions League semi-final clash at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, Chelsea emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Barcelona, setting several records in the process.
Defensive Masterclass Secures Historic Win
The match showcased a defensive masterclass from Chelsea, stifling Barcelona's formidable attack and securing a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.
Against the run of play, it was Chelsea who broke the deadlock just before halftime. Erin Cuthbert unleashed a spectacular strike from the edge of the area, leaving the Barcelona goalkeeper helpless and giving Chelsea the lead for a vital away win.
Chelsea’s Historic Defensive Feat
Chelsea's resolute defence held firm throughout the match, preventing Barcelona from finding the back of the net. In doing so, Chelsea achieved a historic feat, becoming the first team in over eight years to stop Barcelona from scoring at home in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
🔵 Chelsea become the first team in more than EIGHT years to stop Barcelona from scoring at home in the #UWCL 😲 pic.twitter.com/TQKsHVs2OC
— UEFA Women’s Champions League (@UWCL) April 20, 2024
Their disciplined performance frustrated Barcelona's attacking efforts and laid the foundation for their triumph.
English Pioneers in UEFA Women's Champions League
With their victory in the first leg of the semi-final, Chelsea made history once again. They became the first-ever English side to win the opening leg of a UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final.
Chelsea are the first ever English side to win the first leg of a @UWCL semi-final.
— Squawka (@Squawka) April 20, 2024
And they've inflicted Barcelona Femení's first home defeat since February 2019. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/lsEfTHllh8
This achievement highlights Chelsea's growing prominence in European women's football and their ability to compete at the highest level.
Ending Barcelona's Home Dominance
In addition to their other accomplishments, Chelsea delivered a significant blow to Barcelona's home dominance. By securing a rare victory at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, Chelsea became the first team to beat Barcelona at home in any competition in five years.
The first team to beat Barcelona at home in FIVE years.
— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) April 20, 2024
It’s a Chelsea thing. 🔵 pic.twitter.com/TMTUWpif7Q
This remarkable achievement underscores Chelsea's resilience and determination to overcome formidable opponents on the European stage.
Chelsea's triumph over Barcelona in the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-final showcased their defensive prowess and ability to make history on the European stage. With their resilient performance and historic records, Chelsea have firmly established themselves as contenders for the prestigious title. As the second leg approaches, all eyes will be on Chelsea as they aim to maintain their advantage and secure a spot in the final of the competition.
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