Barcelona’s dominant kick-off in UEFA Women’s Champions League; Lyon and Frankfurt also shine

Barcelona initiated their defense of the UEFA Women’s Champions League with a commanding 5-0 victory against Benfica, setting the tone for a formidable campaign. Prior to the match, the team proudly showcased their recent Ballon d’Or women’s team of the season trophy to fans at the Estadi Johan Cruyff.

Despite an early test from Jessica Silva, Barcelona gained momentum, with Alexia Putellas breaking the deadlock after 15 minutes, heading in a deflected shot from Caroline Graham Hansen. However, Putellas appeared to sustain an injury during her goal celebration, prompting her substitution.

Barcelona continued their dominance as María Pilar Leon’s long cross found Esmee Brugts, whose header set up Putellas for a second goal. Aitana Bonmati added a third just before halftime, capitalizing on Graham Hansen’s well-placed cross.

Bonmati continued her stellar performance after the break, scoring another goal with an assist from Graham Hansen. The victory was sealed in the 60th minute with an extraordinary overhead kick from substitute Asisat Oshoala, securing a 5-0 win.

In Lyon’s dominant display against Slavia Prague, they secured a 9-0 victory, with goals from Sara Dabritz, Danielle van de Donk, Vanessa Gilles, Eugenie Le Sommer, and Ada Hegerberg. Gilles secured her second with a header from a corner.

Eintracht Frankfurt started their campaign on a positive note, securing a 2-1 win against Rosengard. Tanja Pawollek and Barbara Dunst scored for Frankfurt, while Olivia Schough tapped in a late goal for Rosengard. Despite the late concession, Frankfurt looks forward to a crucial European clash against Barcelona after facing Nurnberg in league action.

Brann claimed a 2-1 victory against St Polten, with Natasha Ansai’s 79th-minute winner sealing the three points. Signe Gaupset and Rakel Engesvik had earlier contributed to Brann’s lead, while Maria Mikolajova scored a stunning equalizer for St Polten.

As the tournament unfolds, Barcelona, Lyon, and Frankfurt have laid down early markers, showcasing their prowess in pursuit of European glory.

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