The London club Bounce Back with Resounding Victory over AS Roma
The Chelsea captain had rejected talk of a crisis following a end of an unbeaten run, and a dominant half-dozen goal triumph in their penultimate European group game silenced the doubters.
Early Own Goal Breaks the Deadlock
An own goal from Valentina Bergamaschi opened the scoring of Roma in the 13th minute, with subsequent goals contributed by Sjoeke Nüsken, Lucy Bronze.
Manchester United’s setback and Atlético Madrid’s 2-2 draw ensured Chelsea occupying third place, one game away from skipping the playoffs to the UCL quarter-finals.
Multiple Changes and a Bright Start
Making her first appearance since a draw with Liverpool, the skipper was one of several alterations to the side that succumbed to Everton in the WSL.
At their home ground, Chelsea began with intent. A chance from the French forward flew past the post in the opening minutes.
Despite a poor European season, Roma attempted to cause problems, with their right side looking effective.
Chelsea Take Control
The own goal was a hammer blow for the Serie A side. The tide turned decisively Chelsea's way, and it was 2-0 before the half-hour, with Wieke Kaptein slotting home after a clever dummy from the Swedish winger.
A comfortable cushion was extended shortly before halftime, the Swede turning in after the goalkeeper had saved an initial effort.
Relentless Pursuit
After the break, a penalty was dispatched by Sjoeke Nüsken to make it four goals to the good.
The team were ruthless in their pursuit of more goals, with the Everton loss perhaps lighting a fire.
- A young midfielder went near to scoring on her promising cameo, forcing a smart reaction from the Roma keeper.
- The Maika Hamano's effort came after Guro Reiten's run exploited a disorganized defense.
- The last nail in the coffin was a cross from the England international that swept in at the far post.
Job Done
With the result and events elsewhere going their way, Chelsea seized the initiative of their fate to secure a knockout stage spot.
A final match away to European giants Wolfsburg will determine Chelsea and an direct passage to the last eight.
