Controversial call sees Madrid clinch late draw
Chelsea Women’s Champions League campaign opener ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Real Madrid after a late and contentious penalty decision. Olga Carmona’s early goal, deflected off Millie Bright, put Madrid ahead, but Chelsea fought back through goals from Niamh Charles and Sam Kerr. However, a questionable penalty awarded for Jessie Fleming’s late challenge allowed Carmona to equalise from the spot, leaving the Blues feeling unjustly denied of a win.
Chelsea endured a rocky start as goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger’s misjudged clearance led to Carmona’s deflected strike finding the net. Despite this setback, the Blues quickly regained composure. Niamh Charles’ relentless runs and quality deliveries paid off when she connected with an Ashley Lawrence cross to nod home the equaliser.
The second half saw Chelsea intensify their pressure. Jess Carter’s precise through ball sent Kerr one-on-one, but Madrid’s Misa Rodriguez produced a crucial save. Substitutions, including the introduction of Lauren James, added flair but lacked immediate impact.
Kerr’s determined header in the 74th minute from another exceptional Charles cross gave Chelsea a deserved lead. Yet, the match took a controversial turn when Fleming’s minor contact on a Madrid player was deemed a penalty by referee Frida Klarlund. Carmona converted, levelling the match and leaving Chelsea with limited time to reclaim victory.
Late chances for Chelsea, including Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s volley and Lauren James’ bar-rattling effort, couldn’t break the deadlock. In stoppage time, Charles nearly secured the win, but an offside call on Kerr ended the Blues’ hopes for a dramatic triumph.
