Chelsea Dominate St. Pölten with Commanding Champions League Win
It was another statement night for Chelsea in the UEFA Women’s Champions League as the Blues brushed aside St. Pölten in a convincing display that showcased their control, class, and confidence. The match, played at the NV Arena, ended with Chelsea leading comfortably 3–0, and the scoreline told only part of the story of their dominance.
From the opening whistle, Chelsea set the tempo. Their passes were crisp, the movement was fluid, and the Austrian side found themselves on the back foot almost immediately. Within just 13 minutes, Wieke Kaptein broke the deadlock, converting a precise cross from Ellie Carpenter to put Chelsea ahead. It was the perfect start for the visitors, who looked composed and in full control of the rhythm of the game.
Before halftime, Catarina Macario added Chelsea’s second goal with a beautifully taken strike. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd provided the assist after some clever play down the flank, and Macario’s low, driven finish left St. Pölten’s keeper, Carina Schluter, with no chance. By the time the whistle blew for halftime, Chelsea had registered 15 shots compared to St. Pölten’s single attempt and completed over 420 passes—more than three times their opponent’s total.
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Chelsea’s superiority continued after the break. Just minutes into the second half, the Blues were awarded a penalty, and Macario calmly stepped up to convert it, sealing her brace and effectively putting the game to bed. From there, it was all about game management. Chelsea maintained control, rotating possession and seeing out the match with ease.
The night also marked an important milestone for Sam Kerr, who made her first start since December 2023 after recovering from a long-term injury. While she didn’t get on the scoresheet, her movement and energy were key in stretching St. Pölten’s defense. Lauren James, returning from injury, started on the bench, with fans wondering if she’d be eased back into play later in the game.
The statistics painted a clear picture: Chelsea held 77 percent possession, completed 422 passes to St. Pölten’s 122, and managed seven shots on target compared to the home side’s one. St. Pölten, still without a point in the group stage, struggled to contain the relentless pace and technical quality of the English champions.
With this victory, Chelsea moved up to second in the table, solidifying their position in the race for the knockout stages. For manager Sonia Bompastor, it was a performance that blended tactical discipline with attacking flair—a sign that Chelsea’s European ambitions remain very much alive.
In the end, St. Pölten could take little comfort from the scoreline. This was a one-sided affair, dominated by a Chelsea team that looked every bit the contender they’re expected to be in this year’s Champions League campaign.
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