FOOTBALL
Chelsea 5-2 Real Sociedad: Melvine Malard double secures Champions League advantage
Chelsea Women have secured a commanding 5-2 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Women's Champions League third qualifying round. The match was defined by resilience, as the Blues recovered from an early deficit to claim a healthy aggregate advantage ahead of the return leg in Spain. Melvine Malard, who joined Chelsea from Manchester United in July, was the standout performer, scoring twice on her competitive debut for the club. She first rounded the keeper to slot home in the 67th minute, before latching onto a pinpoint cross from Ellie Carpenter with two minutes remaining to seal the win. The victory was achieved under assistant coach Camille Abily, who took charge in the absence of suspended manager Sonia Bompastor. Real Sociedad took the lead through Ainhoa Marin, but Chelsea levelled via Naomi Girma. This result places Chelsea in a strong position to progress to the league phase, demonstrating their ability to control high-stakes European fixtures despite managerial absence.
The Transfer Siren · 25 October 2026
Chelsea Women have secured a commanding 5-2 victory over Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Women's Champions League third qualifying round. The match was defined by resilience, as the Blues recovered from an early deficit to claim a healthy aggregate advantage ahead of the return leg in Spain. Melvine Malard, who joined Chelsea from Manchester United in July, was the standout performer, scoring twice on her competitive debut for the club. She first rounded the keeper to slot home in the 67th minute, before latching onto a pinpoint cross from Ellie Carpenter with two minutes remaining to seal the win. The victory was achieved under assistant coach Camille Abily, who took charge in the absence of suspended manager Sonia Bompastor. Real Sociedad took the lead through Ainhoa Marin, but Chelsea levelled via Naomi Girma. This result places Chelsea in a strong position to progress to the league phase, demonstrating their ability to control high-stakes European fixtures despite managerial absence.
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