Chelsea clinches Champions League quarter-final Spot with 2-1 win over Real Madrid"

In a less-than-thrilling but effective performance, Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory against Real Madrid, confirming their progress to the Champions League quarter-finals at the top of Group D. Emma Hayes, Chelsea’s manager, candidly labeled the win as “boring.” Guro Reiten’s penalty and a fumbled own goal by Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Mylène Chavas, were enough to seal the win.

Despite Chelsea’s dominance, the breakthrough came only after the hour mark, with Reiten converting a penalty after a late tackle on Niamh Charles. The relief at Stamford Bridge was evident, but it was short-lived as Real Madrid swiftly responded. Athenea del Castillo capitalized on a rebound, leveling the score just six minutes after Chelsea’s lead.

However, Chelsea regained the advantage a minute later when Erin Cuthbert’s shot tested Chavas, who unfortunately fumbled the ball into her own net. While not the most scintillating performance, Hayes commended her team’s efficient and patient approach to secure the victory.

Hayes made two changes to the lineup from the previous game, emphasizing the importance of building rhythm. With Chelsea already securing the top spot in Group D, Hayes hinted at experimenting and providing opportunities for other players, preparing for future challenges.

The match showcased Chelsea’s ability to grind out results even when not at their swashbuckling best. The victory also highlighted the promising younger generation of Chelsea players, a testament to Hayes’s strategic selections and rotations. As Hayes prepares to leave for the US women’s national team job, the team’s performance provides something exciting for the fans to watch.