Chelsea advanced to the group stage of the Women’s Champions League with a narrow 1-0 win over Real Sociedad, rounding out a convincing 6-2 aggregate triumph in their third-round qualifying matchup. The decisive moment came early in the second half when Keira Walsh found the net in the 54th minute, capitalizing on a corner to quash any lingering hopes of a comeback by the hosts.
Entering the second leg, Chelsea held a significant 5-2 lead from their initial encounter. Despite this comfortable margin, Sonia Bompastor’s team faced a challenging evening in San Sebastián. Real Sociedad’s organized and disciplined defensive approach made it difficult for Chelsea to display their usual attacking flair. The visitors struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the first half, with Ellie Carpenter offering the primary offensive threat from the right flank, though her crosses went unconverted.
Aggie Beever-Jones nearly broke the deadlock before Walsh’s goal, but her attempt was easily handled by goalkeeper Julia Arrula. It was Walsh’s strike moments later that finally tilted the match decisively in Chelsea’s favor, solidifying their place in the next round of the competition.
With the Women’s Super League opener against Aston Villa on the horizon, Bompastor rotated her squad, giving several players, including recent signings Nelly Las and Giulia Dragoni, the chance to make their Chelsea debuts. The inclusion of 17-year-old Chloe Sarwie in the latter stages also provided valuable experience for the younger members of the team.
While Chelsea’s performance over both legs lacked their usual dominance, achieving qualification for the Champions League league phase was the primary goal. This result also offered the squad competitive playtime ahead of their domestic season. Real Sociedad, unable to overturn the initial deficit, will continue their European journey in the Europa League.