Chelsea withstand pressure to secure a victory over Real Madrid in a tense match featuring five goals in their UWCL opener.

**Chelsea Edge Past Real Madrid in Thrilling UEFA Women’s Champions League Encounter**

In a pulsating encounter at a rain-soaked Stamford Bridge, Chelsea FC secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Real Madrid. This match marked Sonia Bompastor’s first UEFA Women’s Champions League win as the club’s manager. The Women’s Super League side showcased their resilience and attacking prowess, much to the delight of the home crowd.

Bompastor, a two-time UWCL winner as a player and the mastermind behind Lyon’s European triumph in 2021, continued her perfect start with Chelsea, notching up a third consecutive victory. The match began with an electric atmosphere, and it didn’t take long for the Blues to make their mark.

Sjoeke Nusken opened the scoring within just two minutes, capitalising on a well-worked move. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd found space on the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross that Nusken expertly converted. Chelsea doubled their lead in the 27th minute when Guro Reiten confidently slotted home a penalty after Lucy Bronze was brought down in the box.

However, the visitors refused to go quietly. Just before half-time, Alba Redondo pulled one back for Real Madrid, finding the net with a clever effort that slipped under Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic. The goal injected a sense of urgency into the match, and the tension was palpable as the teams headed into the break.

After the interval, Chelsea restored their two-goal cushion when Mayra Ramirez rose to the occasion, heading home a stunning cross from Lauren James in the 53rd minute. The home side seemed to be in control, but Real Madrid had other ideas.

Substitute Linda Caicedo set up a grandstand finish, tapping in a goal with just six minutes remaining, narrowing Chelsea’s lead to a single goal. The tension in the stadium escalated as the clock ticked down, but Bompastor’s side held firm, ultimately securing all three points.

Despite the late withdrawal of goalkeeper Hannah Hampton due to illness, Chelsea’s squad showed remarkable depth, even with only seven substitutes available. The victory not only boosts their confidence but also sets a positive tone for their European campaign.

This thrilling clash at Stamford Bridge marked the opening day of the 2024/25 UEFA Women’s Champions League, with more exciting fixtures on the horizon. On Wednesday, holders Barcelona will face a challenging trip to Manchester City, live on TNT Sports and discovery+, promising more high-stakes action in the coming days.