Chelsea seal place in Women’s Champions League group phase

Keira Walsh struck the only goal as Chelsea booked their place in the Women’s Champions League group phase with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in Spain, sealing a 6-2 aggregate triumph.

Carrying a commanding 5-2 lead from the first leg, Blues boss Sonia Bompastor shuffled her pack with four changes.

The visitors weathered an early scare when Naomi Girma made a crucial recovery tackle to deny Ava Seelenfreund after Lauren James and Ellie Carpenter had earlier gone close down the right flank.

The decisive moment arrived nine minutes after the restart when England midfielder Walsh unleashed a powerful long-range drive past Julia Arrula.

The win ensures Chelsea advance to Friday’s draw in Nyon alongside Women’s Super League champions Manchester City.