In their Women’s Champions League debut, Chelsea faced frustration in a contentious 2-2 draw against Real Madrid. Despite dominating the game, Olga Carmona’s two goals, matched by Niamh Charles and Sam Kerr headers, led to an even score. Chelsea’s apparent last-minute goal was disallowed, causing post-match frustration.
Chelsea initially fell behind to Carmona’s deflected long-range strike. However, they equalized just before halftime when Charles headed in Ashley Lawrence’s cross. The second half saw continued opportunities for Chelsea, and Kerr eventually gave them the lead with a header from Charles’ cross.
Real Madrid leveled the score with a controversial penalty, raising questions about the foul’s location.
This was given as a penalty to Real Madrid… What a joke… pic.twitter.com/XpcyL6qvub
— Chelsea Women Daily (@CFCWdaily) November 15, 2023
Carmona converted, and Chelsea’s late attempt hit the crossbar. In a dramatic twist, Charles seemingly secured a late win, but VAR absence led to the disapproval of the goal, leaving Chelsea and their manager, Emma Hayes, angered by the decision.