Chelsea’s first trophy under Sonia Bompastor keeps quadruple hopes alive
Sonia Bompastor's tenure at Chelsea has begun in triumphant fashion, as the Blues secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Women's League Cup final at Pride Park.
This hard-fought win not only marks Bompastor's first silverware with the club but also keeps Chelsea's aspirations for a historic quadruple well on track.
Fast start gives Chelsea the edge
The match started with high intensity, and it was Chelsea who struck first. In the eighth minute, Mayra Ramirez capitalised on a swift counter-attack, slotting home to give the Blues an early lead.
Despite City's dominance in possession, Chelsea's defence remained resolute, with goalkeeper Hannah Hampton making several crucial saves to maintain the advantage.
City’s fightback and a decisive own goal
Manchester City, under interim head coach Nick Cushing, responded in the second half.
Aoba Fujino showcased her talent with a stunning strike from the edge of the area, leveling the score in the 64th minute.
However, the decisive moment came in the 77th minute. A dangerous cross from Ramirez into the City box led to an unfortunate own goal by Yui Hasegawa, restoring Chelsea's lead.
Despite City's efforts to find another equaliser, Chelsea's defence stood firm, ensuring the victory.
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The curse is lifted
This triumph is particularly sweet for Chelsea, having lost the previous three League Cup finals.
The win not only adds to Chelsea's trophy cabinet but also serves as a significant morale booster as they continue to compete on multiple fronts.
With the Women's Super League title race, FA Cup, and Champions League campaigns still in progress, this victory under Bompastor's leadership sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming fixtures, where Chelsea will look to build on this momentum and continue their pursuit of further glory.
Chelsea remain unbeaten in all competitions this season, with their only setbacks being two WSL draws.
The first of four battles against City
This League Cup final victory marks the first of four consecutive clashes between Chelsea and Manchester City across various competitions.
Following this encounter, the two sides are set to meet in the UEFA Women's Champions League quarter-finals - a competition they’re yet to win - with the first leg at the Joie Stadium on Wednesday, March 19, and the return leg at Stamford Bridge on Thursday, March 27.
Sandwiched between these European fixtures is a WSL showdown at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, March 23.
With momentum on their side, Bompastor’s squad is shaping up for a campaign that could go down in the history books.
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