Olga Carmona nets brace as Chelsea and Real Madrid draw 2-2

Real Madrid and Chelsea engaged in an exhilarating match at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano, resulting in a 2-2 draw in their first UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D game. The spectators in the Spanish capital were treated to a captivating display of talent and determination from both teams.

In the 11th minute, Real Madrid took the lead through Olga Carmona’s powerful long-range shot, which took an unexpected deflection off Millie Bright following a miscued clearance by Ann-Katrin Berger. Carmona, known for her heroic performance in Spain’s World Cup final, joyfully celebrated her goal alongside her teammate Signe Bruun. Nevertheless, Chelsea swiftly retaliated as Niamh Charles skillfully nodded in a tempting delivery from Ashleigh Lawrence. In the second half, the WSL Champions seized the lead when Sam Kerr netted a header from Charles’ cross at close range.

Despite this, Real Madrid persistently posed a danger on counterattacks throughout the game and were granted a penalty after Jessie Fleming was judged to have committed a foul on Athenea del Castillo inside the box. Carmona confidently stepped up and successfully converted from the penalty spot, equalizing the score. Chelsea had a thrilling conclusion as they believed they had sealed the win with the final strike of the match. However, Charles’ attempt was disallowed due to an offside call against Kerr. The English team had to be content with earning just one point in their first game of the season.

Emma Hayes, who is set to depart from Chelsea after this season to coach the USA Women’s National Team, will be dissatisfied with the outcome. Having never triumphed in the Women’s Champions League, Hayes will now concentrate on readying her squad for the upcoming game versus Paris FC, aiming for a strong comeback.