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Chelsea Women Rout Real Sociedad 5-2 in UCL Opener

8/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Chelsea Women beat Real Sociedad 5-2 in the UEFA Women’s Champions League third-qualifying-round first leg.
Melvine Malard scored a brace on her Chelsea debut in the second half.
Naomi Girma opened scoring with a header from Katie McCabe’s corner in the 30th minute.
Assistant coach Camille Abily managed Chelsea because head coach Sonia Bompastor served a suspension.

History

Historical Context

UEFA launched the Women’s Cup in 2001, with German side 1. FFC Frankfurt winning the first final; the tournament was rebranded as the Women’s Champions League in 2009-10 and now allows two entries from the top eight associations, giving Germany a record nine titles. Chelsea Women’s 5-2 win over Real Sociedad continues England’s recent rise in the competition.

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Story summary

Chelsea Women beat Real Sociedad 5-2 in the UEFA Women’s Champions League third-qualifying-round first leg.
Melvine Malard scored a brace on her Chelsea debut in the second half.
Naomi Girma opened scoring with a header from Katie McCabe’s corner in the 30th minute.
Assistant coach Camille Abily managed Chelsea because head coach Sonia Bompastor served a suspension.

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