Real Madrid Advances to Women’s Champions League Quarterfinals
LONDON (AP) — In a decisive match on Wednesday, Real Madrid secured their spot in the quarterfinals of the women’s Champions League, setting up a highly anticipated showdown with Barcelona, the reigning champions. The Madrid team triumphed over Paris FC with a 2-0 victory, concluding the tie with an aggregate score of 5-2 after having edged the first leg 3-2 in Paris.
Match Highlights
Naomie Feller ignited the game for Madrid by scoring the opening goal in the second half, while Paris FC’s Melween N’Dongala unfortunately contributed to the scoreline by scoring an own goal shortly after. The match took a troubling turn for Paris when defender Théa Greboval was dismissed early on—just five minutes into the game—for a foul on Feller as she attempted to break through on goal.
Despite the setback, Paris FC almost gained the upper hand first when Océane Picard unleashed a low shot from 20 meters in the 19th minute, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez made a crucial save to keep the game scoreless. Madrid was awarded a penalty in the 36th minute after a handball from Picard, but Mylène Chavas, former keeper for Madrid, denied Caroline Weir‘s attempt from the spot, pushing the ball away with both hands.
Feller’s breakthrough came in the 54th minute when she skillfully volleyed the ball from close range, thanks to a well-placed cross from Eva Navarro. Navarro was again instrumental in the second goal, which was accidentally put into the net by N’Dongala minutes later, effectively sealing the game for Madrid.
Champions League Format Changes
The women’s Champions League has adopted a new format similar to that of the men’s competition, featuring an opening phase consisting of six rounds instead of eight. This change led to Barcelona, Lyon, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich advancing directly to the quarterfinals, while teams finishing fifth through twelfth entered a playoff round.
Upcoming Matches
Looking ahead, Thursday’s second leg matches will feature Juventus facing off against two-time champions Wolfsburg with the tie balanced at 2-2, while Manchester United will look to protect their significant 3-0 lead at home against Atletico Madrid.
