Chelsea shines in victory over Twente on October 17
- Chelsea secured a 3-1 victory against FC Twente in Enschede, which marked their second consecutive Champions League win.
- Lauren James was unexpectedly sidelined due to a foot issue sustained during the warm-up, leading to Johanna Rytting Kaneryd's late inclusion in the starting lineup.
- The team demonstrated efficiency and strong movement, solidifying their position at the top of Group B as they now prepare for their upcoming Women's Super League match against Tottenham.
Chelsea's women's team achieved a crucial 3-1 victory over FC Twente in the UEFA Women's Champions League on October 17, 2024, in Enschede, Netherlands. This game marked their second consecutive win in the group stage, placing them firmly at the top of Group B. The match was significant for Chelsea as they continued their strong performance in European competition, building momentum as they advance. A notable aspect of this match was the injury of key player Lauren James, who suffered a foot issue during the warm-up. This late development caused Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor to change her initial starting XI, with Johanna Rytting Kaneryd stepping in as a replacement. Bompastor described the situation as uncertain and indicated that James's condition would be evaluated the following day. During the match, Aggie Beever-Jones opened the scoring for Chelsea, and Maika Hamano followed up with a remarkable long-range goal. Guro Reiten added a third from the penalty spot, showcasing Chelsea's offensive capabilities and tactical efficiency. Although Twente managed to pull one back, the Blues maintained control throughout the match. Bompastor emphasized the importance of the three points secured, underlining the quality and depth of the squad. This victory also allowed slight rotation in the lineup ahead of their upcoming Women’s Super League clash against Tottenham, reflecting the team's depth and competitiveness as they navigate multiple competitions.