Chelsea Women produced a stunning response to their recent domestic setback by thrashing Roma Women 6-0 in the UEFA Women’s Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, December 10.
The win has moved them into a crucial top-four spot in the competition’s league phase.
A fast start sets the tone
As early as the 13th minute, Chelsea took the lead with an own goal. A dangerous cross from Sandy Baltimore was turned into her own net by Roma defender Valentina Bergamaschi.
Chelsea continued to dominate possession and soon doubled their advantage with Wieke Kaptein sweeping it home confidently. Just before half-time, Rytting Kaneryd added a third with a powerful finish high into the net.
Early in the second half, Nusken was fouled in the box. After a VAR check, a penalty was awarded. The German midfielder stepped up coolly to roll the spot-kick home from 12 yards, making it 4-0.
Chelsea continued to press and extend their advantage, with Hamano and Lucy Bronze scoring the fifth and sixth goals, respectively.
Bompastor praises team’s response
Reflecting on the display, Bompastor said, “We couldn’t have responded any better to the weekend’s setback,” highlighting the importance of bouncing back after the end of their 34-match unbeaten Women’s Super League run.
“It was really important for us to win,” she said to Disney+.
“Any time Chelsea lose a game, it’s a big drama for everyone; we know that, and also the expectations we have in ourselves.
“It’s really important to bounce back from that defeat and have the performance we had tonight and score that many goals from different players.”
Qualification now within reach
Chelsea are now one win away from securing direct passage to the quarter-finals of the Women’s Champions League.
“From our expectations, we want to finish in the top four just to go through and not to have to play two more games, so that’s what we want to do, but it will be a tough game [on December 17],” Bompastor said.
Also speaking to Disney+, Chelsea midfielder Wieke Kaptein addressed the importance of the win.
“I think we needed to come back from the last game. I think every club who plays in the Champions League wants that.
“We’re really eager to get there, and we have Wolfsburg next week – we will try to get the win, and we will see.”
READ NEXT: Sunderland vs Newcastle betting tips, best bets, how to watch
