Scotland Woman

Chelsea, though not at their best, managed to edge out a resilient Celtic side, maintaining their lead in Group B of the Women’s Champions League. Chelsea’s coach Sonia Bompastor made several line-up adjustments for the trip to Glasgow, and her team had to dig deep to preserve her unbeaten run as manager. It was a landmark night at Celtic Park, hosting its first Women’s Champions League game, and history was made once more. Defying expectations, the Scottish champions struck first. Murphy Agnew broke away from the Chelsea defence, connecting with a superbly curved pass from Amy Gallacher, scoring Celtic’s inaugural goal of the group stage. The goal spurred the Super League champions into action, and just six minutes later, they levelled as Maika Hamano outsmarted Celtic’s keeper, Kelsey Daugherty. Chelsea took the lead within another four minutes, capitalising on a counter-attack as Ashley Lawrence sent a powerful shot into the top of the net, turning the momentum in the first of two back-to-back UK showdowns. Spectators may have anticipated Celtic struggling to keep up, yet they fought admirably throughout a lively second half. Lucy Ashworth-Clifford was a constant threat down the left, delivering a series of dangerous crosses, while Daugherty’s impressive saves kept the game within reach. Though the score remained close, Celtic couldn’t find an equaliser. A red card for Agnes Beever-Jones in stoppage time came too late to be impactful, sealing Celtic’s third defeat in their debut Champions League campaign. Scottish Champions Show Progress and Determination The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, reminiscent of when Celtic secured their first SWPL title in May. Their unexpected lead after 22 minutes sent the home crowd into a frenzy. Gallacher’s assist for Agnew showcased the kind of fluid play seen in the SWPL but had been missing in earlier defeats to Twente and Real Madrid. Coach Elena Sadiku noted her team’s progress, which was evident again here. Emma Lawton, who was playing part-time football just months ago, was impressive in containing Guro Reiten, while Shannon McGregor excelled in midfield. Celtic held off Chelsea’s attacks for much of the game, even as fatigue from their recent 120-minute match against Glasgow City began to show. Ashworth-Clifford displayed remarkable energy, showing no hesitation facing Champions League veteran Lucy Bronze, who entered at halftime. Despite concerns of a heavy defeat, the Scottish champions left the field with their pride intact after a spirited performance. Chelsea Push Through Despite Fatigue and Changes Bompastor made bold decisions, resting key players ahead of a weekend clash with Manchester City, resulting in a sluggish start for her side. However, after falling behind, Chelsea’s quality began to emerge, though inconsistently. Bompastor expressed frustration on the sidelines as Chelsea struggled to secure a decisive lead in the second half, with Daugherty’s sharp goalkeeping contributing to the close scoreline. It wasn’t the straightforward win Chelsea may have hoped for, but as a warm-up for their upcoming WSL top-of-the-table clash, it provided a challenging test. Full time:  Celtic 1-2 Chelsea Post-Match Reactions Chelsea and Scotland midfielder Erin Cuthbert remarked: “The three points are the highlight tonight. Our performance could have been better, but with games every three days, we keep looking forward.” “The atmosphere was intense – I got some stick from the crowd, but I enjoyed it. Celtic were disciplined, organised, and gave us a tough game. We’ll aim to improve for next week.” Celtic head coach Elena Sadiku commented: “Disappointed with the result, but extremely proud of my players. We’re growing more confident and showing we can compete.” “We played some brilliant football, were fearless, and managed to break through Chelsea’s pressure.”