The UEFA Women`s Champions League semifinals are set to begin, with Barcelona hosting Chelsea in a highly anticipated first leg match. This marks the third consecutive year these two powerhouses have met at this stage of the competition, adding another chapter to their growing rivalry.
Barcelona and Chelsea are among the final four teams vying for a spot in the UWCL final, alongside Arsenal and Lyon. The ultimate prize is the final match at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon on May 24th.
Barcelona has historically held the upper hand in recent encounters with Chelsea, including a dominant victory in the 2020-21 UWCL final. This semifinal also introduces new coaching dynamics, with Sonia Bompastor now leading Chelsea and Pere Romeu at the helm for Barcelona.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, April 20
- Time: 12 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadi Johan Cruyff, Barcelona, Spain
UWCL Semifinal Schedule
First Legs
Lyon 2, Arsenal 1
Barcelona vs Chelsea (12 p.m. ET)
Second Legs
Chelsea vs Barcelona (9 a.m. ET)
Lyon vs Arsenal (12 p.m. ET)
UWCL Final
Saturday, May 24
Arsenal/Lyon vs Barcelona/Chelsea — Estádio José Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal (12 p.m. ET)
Previous Encounters
- 2023-24 Semifinals: Barcelona won 2-1 on aggregate
- 2022-23 Semifinals: Barcelona won 2-1 on aggregate
- 2020-21 Final: Barcelona won 4-0
Barcelona enters the match as the reigning champion and faces a Chelsea team eager to overcome their past defeats in this matchup. Despite Barcelona`s historical dominance, both teams have new managers this season, adding an element of unpredictability.
Barcelona`s Perspective
Barcelona`s coach, Pere Romeu, anticipates a challenging contest, acknowledging Chelsea`s strengths in fast attacks and counter-attacking play. He expects a tough and extended semifinal series.
Chelsea`s Viewpoint
Chelsea, under Sonia Bompastor, recognizes Barcelona`s experience and talent but remains confident in their ability to compete. Bompastor, a proven winner in the competition, aims to guide Chelsea to their elusive Champions League title.
Projected Starting Lineups
Barcelona: Cata Coll; Ona Batlle, Irene Paredes, Mapi Leon, Esmee Brugts; Aitana Bonmati, Patri Guijarro, Alexia Putellas; Carolie Graham Hansen, Salma Paralluelo, Ewa Pajor
Chelsea: Hannah Hampton; Lucy Bronze, Nathalie Bjorn, Millie Bright, Sandy Baltimore; Kiera Walsh, Erin Cuthbert; Rytting Kaneryd, Wieke Kaptein, Aggie Beever-Jones; Mayra Ramirez
American Player Spotlight
Chelsea`s squad includes several American players, though injuries may limit their roles in this semifinal. Catarina Macario, however, is expected to feature after recovering from injury and gaining match fitness.
Match Prediction
Given the history of close first-leg matches between these teams, another tight encounter is anticipated. Expect a midfield battle, and a possible draw in the first leg.
Prediction: Barcelona 1, Chelsea 1
