Barcelona 4-1 Chelsea: Pina shines as Blaugrana dominate First Leg of Women’s Champions League Semifinal
Barcelona took a massive step toward defending their Women’s Champions League title with a commanding 4-1 first-leg win over Chelsea in the semifinal clash on Sunday. Despite an early missed penalty by captain Alexia Putellas, goals from Ewa Pajor, Irene Paredes, and a brace by super-sub Claudia Pina sealed the win at home.
Missed Penalty, No Problem: Barcelona’s Ruthless Response
Barcelona started brightly but suffered a setback in the 12th minute when Alexia Putellas’ penalty was saved by Hannah Hampton, giving Chelsea a temporary reprieve. However, the momentum remained with the hosts, and Ewa Pajor broke the deadlock in the 35th minute with a clinical finish following sustained pressure.
Read also: Putellas extends Barcelona contract until 2026
Super-Sub Claudia Pina Changes the Game
In the second half, Claudia Pina entered and transformed the match. The young attacker scored just minutes after coming on, exploiting space left by Chelsea’s backline in the 70th minute.
Though Sandy Baltimore pulled one back for the visitors in the 74th minute, the joy was short-lived as Irene Paredes restored the two-goal lead with a powerful header in the 82nd. Pina then completed the rout in the 90th minute, making it 4-1 with a composed strike.
Post-Match Reactions
Barcelona coach Pere Romeu: “No winning scoreline is enough. You can’t ever rely on a first-leg lead. We are going to have a beautiful battle over there at Stamford Bridge.”
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor: “I still believe in my team, 100%. It’ll be difficult, but an early goal could change the story. In football, anything is possible.”
Match Summary: Barcelona vs Chelsea (Women)
Goals:
- 35’ Pajor (BAR)
- 70’ Pina (BAR)
- 74’ Baltimore (CHE)
- 82’ Paredes (BAR)
- 90’ Pina (BAR)
Missed Penalty:
- 12’ Putellas (BAR) – saved by Hampton
Man of the Match:
- Claudia Pina – 2 goals in 20 minutes off the bench
Aggregate Score (First Leg):
- Barcelona 4–1 Chelsea
What’s Next?
The second leg takes place at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, with Chelsea needing at least a 3-0 win to force extra time. The winner on aggregate will move on to the final in Lisbon next month.
Other UWCL Semifinal Result
- Arsenal 1-2 Lyon – The French giants hold a narrow first-leg advantage after surviving a spirited second-half rally from the Gunners.
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