Emma Hayes hailed Maren Mjelde as a “Chelsea legend” after Thursday night’s dramatic win over Lyon.
The Blues booked their spot in the Women’s Champions League semi-finals by beating the holders on penalties after first falling to what looked to be a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Vanesa Gilles and Sara Dabritz had put the French giants into a commanding lead as the end of extra-time loomed, only for Lauren James to win a penalty in the dying embers of the game.
Mjelde stepped up to score from the spot with the last kick of the game, sending the quarter-final into a shootout.
The Norway captain then scored first as the Blues won 4-3 on penalties to tee up a meeting with Barca in the final four.
"I’m just relieved it’s over and we’re through that,” said Hayes.
“Players have had to come into the game and play multiple roles.
“For Maren to do what she did, she’s a Chelsea legend.”
Hayes also paid special mention to goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.
The German, who has twice had to battle thyroid cancer, saved two penalties to send Chelsea through.
“She’s someone who thrives in big moments. She’s probably the best penalty saving goalkeeper I’ve ever worked with, so I felt confident going into the shootout - even if I didn’t look it."
