LONDON, March 29, 2025: Chelsea’s women overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to defeat Manchester City 3-0, securing a Champions League semifinal clash with holders Barcelona on Thursday.
Earlier, Barcelona crushed Wolfsburg 6-1 in Catalonia, completing a dominant 10-2 aggregate victory.
In the final of four encounters between City and Chelsea over 12 days, the reigning English champions quickly responded to their rare first-leg loss. Chelsea had already overturned the tie before halftime, with Sandy Baltimore firing into the top corner and Nathalie Bjorn heading in from a corner to equalize 2-2 on aggregate. Lauren James capitalized on a poor City pass to assist Mayra Ramirez in scoring the decisive goal.
Chelsea remain in contention for a quadruple in Sonia Bompastor’s debut season as manager. They recently edged City 2-1 in the League Cup final, have reached the FA Cup semifinals, and lead the Women’s Super League by eight points. However, they now face the formidable challenge of dethroning Barcelona next month.
Chelsea’s previous Champions League campaigns have been halted by Barcelona in three of the last four seasons. Pere Romeu’s squad won the tournament on all three occasions and have now reached a record seventh consecutive semifinal.
Following a surprise El Clásico loss to Real Madrid on Sunday, Barcelona responded ruthlessly against the team they defeated in the 2023 final.
Salma Paralluelo’s rapid double extended their 4-1 first-leg advantage before Esmee Brugts powered in a long-range strike for the third goal. Substitute Claudia Pina added to the tally after slipping a shot past Anneke Borbe at the near post.
Lineth Beerensteyn netted a consolation goal for Wolfsburg after goalkeeper Cata Coll failed to clear a ball properly. However, Pina struck again with a free-kick that deflected in off the post, while Mapi Leon sealed the rout with a long-range effort in stoppage time.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will take on eight-time winners Lyon in the other semifinal for a chance to reach the final in Lisbon on May 24.