Chelsea's ambition to win this season's Women's Champions League was hardly threatened when Murphy Agnew gave Celtic a surprising lead. The possibility of an embarrassing night for one of the Super League's top teams became real, even if only briefly. Chelsea left Glasgow's east end with their reputation intact, despite Agnes Beever-Jones receiving a red card in stoppage time. Agnew's goal, Celtic's first in the Champions League proper, was nullified by halftime.
There was a sense of occasion in front of over 7,000 spectators that Celtic can be proud of, along with a commendable performance. Chelsea never completely overwhelmed their opponents. Celtic can be satisfied that they are gradually adapting to this level. Chelsea, spurred by Agnew's scare, are moving closer to the stage of the tournament where they aim to make a significant impact. Tougher tests await; Chelsea will need to be far more clinical. Two goals from over 20 shots on goal was a meager return.
Pre-match odds highlighted the challenge facing Celtic. Some bookmakers had the Scottish champions at over 50/1 for a home fixture, underscoring the gap between elite women's football north and south of the border. Additionally, Celtic have struggled to balance domestic and European commitments early in this campaign. Speculation about a rift between manager Elena Sadiku and Caitlin Hayes, who has been absent, did not help Celtic's cause. Sadiku denied any issues with Hayes, who was only among the substitutes here.
With Chelsea focusing on upcoming challenges, Sonia Bompastor kept Millie Bright out of the trip to Glasgow. Erin Cuthbert, a Scot and former Rangers player, captained the visitors. Chelsea's approach was questionable early on. Bompastor's team dominated possession before Agnew put Celtic ahead. Chelsea had not tested Kelsey Daugherty enough. A superb pass from Amy Gallacher sent Agnew clear. The forward's pace and composure allowed her to beat the Chelsea defense and score. As Celtic celebrated, Chelsea called an impromptu huddle. Their play, while aesthetically pleasing, had been ineffective. Celtic also demonstrated the threat of their counterattack.
Celtic's joy was short-lived. Daugherty should have saved Maika Hamano's equalizer, instead helping the ball into the net after fine build-up play from Agnes Beever-Jones. The goal was a just reward for Hamano's elegance. Daugherty redeemed herself with a great save from Cuthbert, but Ashley Lawrence scored from the rebound. Cuthbert nearly scored with a half-volley as Chelsea sought a third before halftime. Lucy Bronze and two others were introduced at the start of the second half. Cuthbert, who seemed to enjoy her return home, was substituted. Chelsea aimed to score a third goal to crush Celtic's hopes. Sadiku's players were disciplined and did not deviate from their plan to build play from the back, a commendable effort against Chelsea's quality.
Hayes entered the field at the hour mark as Celtic tried to counter relentless Chelsea pressure. Daugherty made a good save from Catarina Macario, who then narrowly missed. Musovic had become a bystander. Chelsea's panic was self-inflicted, with Nathalie Björn deflecting an Agnew cross narrowly wide. Daugherty denied Johanna Rytting Kaneryd at close range. A chance for Celtic came but Saoirse Noonan missed. No red faces for Chelsea. A sense of belonging for Celtic.
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