It’s advantage Chelsea in the Champions League, but it’s also so much more than that. A 1-0 win at the home of the holders Lyon gives Chelsea a narrow lead heading back to Stamford Bridge, but this is also a result and performance that will give Emma Hayes’ side real belief that they can finish the job and deliver a statement result in this competition. Guro Reiten’s wonderful finish midway though the first half was the difference, but overall this was a hugely impressive away display from the English champions.
It also has to be Chelsea’s best result in Europe under Hayes. Only Paris Saint-Germain have managed to knock Lyon out of the Champions League over the past seven years and while the job is only halfway done, Chelsea have given themselves a huge chance. The visitors were made to hang on at times but they also carried the greater threat in large spells. In an ominous warning to Lyon, Sam Kerr did most of her work off the ball and had a wasteful night when chances arrived, although the record winners may have Ada Hegerberg back in time for Stamford Bridge.
