Chelsea was thwarted in their Women’s Champions League opener as a controversial penalty call and disallowed goal allowed Real Madrid to draw with the Blues in Group D.

Early Drama

Chelsea faced frustration in their Women’s Champions League opening match as a sequence of controversial decisions influenced their draw against Real Madrid in Group D. The game was marked by pivotal moments that shifted the course of the match.

Real Madrid’s Early Lead

The hosts, Real Madrid, seized an advantage in the 10th minute, capitalizing on a deflected effort by World Cup winner Olga Carmona. The shot took an unfortunate deflection off Chelsea defender Millie Bright, ultimately deceiving goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger and finding the back of the net.

Chelsea’s Response

Just before halftime, the visitors found their deserved equalizer through Niamh Charles, who capitalized on Ashley Lawrence’s well-placed cross to head the ball into the net, leveling the score.

Chelsea Takes the Lead

Australia forward Sam Kerr orchestrated a turnaround for Chelsea, putting them ahead in the 75th minute with a powerful header from Charles’ precise cross, showing resilience and skill.

Controversial Penalty Decision

However, the game’s turning point came swiftly as, within two minutes, Real Madrid, known as Las Blancas, were granted a penalty. Danish referee Frida Klarlund adjudged Jessie Fleming’s challenge on Athenea del Castillo in the penalty area as a foul, leading to the contentious penalty decision that altered the match’s narrative.

The match’s outcome was heavily influenced by these pivotal moments, raising debate and discussion surrounding the decisions made by the officials, ultimately impacting Chelsea’s result in their Women’s Champions League opener.