Chelsea Stun Barcelona in Women's Champions League First Leg
Cuthbert's Goal Gives Blues Advantage
Barcelona's Penalty Overturned by VAR
Chelsea produced a remarkable display at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys to secure a 1-0 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of their Women's Champions League semi-final. Erin Cuthbert's clinical finish proved to be the difference, while Barcelona's hopes of a comeback were dented when a second-half penalty was overturned by VAR.
The visitors started the match with intensity and were rewarded in the 20th minute when Cuthbert received the ball on the edge of the box and drove it calmly into the bottom corner. Barcelona responded well and pressed for an equalizer, but Chelsea's defense held firm.
The second half saw Barcelona continue to dominate possession, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances. In a crucial moment, VAR ruled out a potential equalizer for the hosts after it was determined that the penalty awarded had been taken outside the box.
Chelsea held on to their lead in the closing stages to secure a crucial advantage heading into the second leg. The Blues will now look to defend their lead at Stamford Bridge on April 30 as they aim to reach the final.
For Barcelona, the defeat represents a setback in their quest to win the Women's Champions League for the first time. They will need to produce a strong performance in London if they want to keep their hopes of silverware alive.
Komentar