Champions League night: Barcelona remain flawless, Chelsea impress and Leuven stage a late comeback!

The second half of Matchday 2 in the UEFA Women’s Champions League once again offered a wide range of action, from Barcelona’s commanding performance in Rome to Chelsea’s goal spree and OH Leuven’s sensational late victory.

AS Roma – FC Barcelona (0–4)

From the outset, Barcelona left no doubt as to why they are considered the best team in the world. Esmee Brugts scored with a precise finish in the second minute to give her side an early lead, a visible reward for the hard work and trust placed in the young Dutch player by her coach and teammates over the past few months, as reflected in her pre-match comments.

Roma coach Luca Rossettini had described the game beforehand as a special occasion for the team, staff and fans, a chance to embrace the atmosphere and gain valuable experience against arguably the strongest opponent in the world. His players showed exactly that attitude: committed, courageous and disciplined, despite the absence of their captain and two other key players.

Barcelona, who were also missing several key players, maintained their dominance throughout. After a missed penalty in the 51st minute, Kika Nazareth doubled the lead just six minutes later. In the 71st minute, Alexia Putellas confidently converted another penalty to make it 3–0, before Caroline Graham Hansen added the final goal in the 90th minute after an assist from Clàudia Pina to make it 4–0.

Despite the heavy defeat, Roma could take some positives from the performance. Their defensive organisation and teamwork stood out in particular. After the match, Alayah Pilgrim expressed pride in how the team had stuck together and given everything despite the result. While conceding four goals was tough, she said the team enjoyed the challenge of facing one of the best sides in the world and will go into the next games with confidence, especially in their defensive structure and their ability to create chances.

Chelsea FC – Paris FC (4–0)

Chelsea produced an impressive performance at Stamford Bridge. After a controversial first-half penalty converted by Sandy Baltimore, the Blues finally found their rhythm.

Shortly before half-time, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd made it 2–0 with a well-placed header. Immediately after the break, Thompson, one of the standout players of the evening, added the third. In the 62nd minute, Erin Cuthbert reacted quickest to a mix-up in the Paris defence to complete the 4–0 win.

It was also a special night for Lexi Potter, who made her Champions League debut and impressed with her composure and vision.

Chelsea dominated with pace, pressing and a clear attacking drive, while Paris FC struggled to find their footing. With this convincing victory, the London side head into the international break feeling stronger and confident that their Champions League campaign is firmly back on track.

OH Leuven – FC Twente (2–1)

Belgium’s OH Leuven delivered the surprise of the evening. After falling behind in the first half, the hosts fought back to claim a historic home victory.

Jaimy Ravensbergen put Twente ahead in the 39th minute, but Leuven refused to give up. Linde Veefkind equalised in the 82nd minute, and deep into stoppage time in the 95th minute, Sára Pusztai scored the dramatic winner to complete the turnaround.

It was an emotional night for the Belgians, who made history through commitment, belief and passion. For Twente, however, it was a bitter ending to a match they had largely controlled.