MY ACCOUNT
Guro Reiten netted the only goal against Lyon to put Chelsea in the driving seat to advance to the Women’s Champions League semi-finals.
The in-form Norwegian, 28, broke the deadlock in the 28th minute of the first-leg encounter with a curling effort after Erin Cuthbert won the ball and teed her up.
Reigning champions Lyon came close to falling further behind just moments later when Lauren James rattled the post.
The hosts bossed most of the first half at the Groupama Stadium but failed to make the most of their opportunities as they pushed for an equaliser.
Worryingly for Chelsea, England defender Millie Bright hobbled off during the opening 45 minutes after picking up a leg injury.
As the game up opened up following the interval, the visitors looked dangerous on the counter — yet it was Lyon ace Delphine Cascarino who came closest to adding to the scoreline when she struck the woodwork.
In front of a hostile crowd, Emma Hayes’ side dug in as the clock ticked down to ensure they had a lead to protect in the second leg of the quarter-final at Stamford Bridge next Thursday.
But as former Leeds striker Lucy Ward pointed out, it will not be easy for the Women’s Super League leaders to finish the job — despite the advantage of playing in front of a bumper home crowd.
Ward, who worked the game for broadcaster DAZN, said: “It was as tight as I thought the game would be. Job half done.
“Chelsea will expect Lyon to come back at them next week but they’re in control and that’s the best you can say.
“They’re at home and the onus is on them to go through now but it will not be easy.”
