Barcelona take control as the UEFA Women’s Champions League heats up
The night’s action in the UEFA Women’s Champions League produced a standout performance from Barcelona, who hold a 4-1 lead at the break against Bayern Munich. The Catalan giants asserted themselves early, with goals from Alexia Putellas, Ewa Pajor and Esme Brugts giving Barcelona a comfortable cushion. Klara Buhl pulled one back for Bayern, but Salma Paralluelo struck in stoppage time to restore a four-goal advantage before the whistle. The result places Barcelona in a commanding position as the competition intensifies in the knockout or league-phase stretch, depending on the format for this season.
Other ties in play: Paris FC and Leuven
Across the Atlantic of the match calendar, Paris FC are leading Leuven 2-0, continuing the trend of strong showings from French clubs in this edition of the competition. The early pace suggests a potential for Paris FC to press further and consolidate their position as the tournament progresses, highlighting the depth of talent across Europe’s women’s game.
Chelsea’s mission: win every competition, including the Champions League
Chelsea head into their midweek fixture with Twente knowing the club’s history in Europe remains unfinished business until the coveted Champions League trophy is lifted. Manager Sonia Bompastor spoke about Chelsea’s desire to perform in every competition, underscoring that the Champions League is the club’s most critical objective this season. In a news conference, she emphasised the benefits of a new competition format that features a league phase instead of a traditional group stage, arguing that it will elevate the level of competition across matches and provide fans with consistently high-quality football.
Why the new format matters for Chelsea and the Women’s game
Bompastor explained that the league-phase setup should heighten the intensity of each fixture, forcing teams to bring their best game week after week. She believes the change will generate a higher standard of play and greater excitement for supporters watching at home and in stadiums. For Chelsea, this environment is an ideal testing ground to push towards domestic and European honours simultaneously, reinforcing the club’s ambition to add a major European trophy to their growing list of achievements.
Manchester United: update on Celin Bizet and squad depth
Manchester United have confirmed that midfielder Celin Bizet will miss their Champions League debut against Valerenga due to a minor niggle. Manager Marc Skinner indicated the injury is not serious and that Bizet could be back in contention for upcoming fixtures, including a busy weekend schedule. The development adds a layer of cautious optimism for United as they seek to balance Premier League responsibilities with European competition in the coming weeks.
Bright points to consider for England’s national team
Amid club commitments, Millie Bright’s stance on national-team selection continues to attract attention. The Chelsea defender, who recently withdrew from the Lionesses’ Euro 2025 squad, reiterated that she is “always available” for England but noted that the immediate priority is Chelsea’s clash in the Champions League. The England side also has friendlies against Brazil and Australia on the horizon, offering a chance to observe how club form translates to international duty as the Euros approach.
Twente vs Chelsea: scouting the midweek clash
Wednesday’s fixture between Twente and Chelsea (kick-off times 17:30 and 17:45 BST) is a key test for Chelsea as they navigate the new competition format. Chelsea aim to demonstrate their depth, adaptability, and consistency across Europe, with the aim of progressing deep into the tournament and ultimately lifting Europe’s premier club trophy for women.
As the UEFA Women’s Champions League unfolds, supporters can expect high-quality football, tactical nuance, and dramatic late moments as teams push to claim glory on the continental stage.
