In a dramatic night at San Mames Stadium, Olympique Lyonnais shattered Chelsea's European dreams with a hard-fought 2-1 victory to claim their record-extending eighth Women's Champions League title.
The French giants, under the guidance of trailblazing coach Sonia Bompastor, secured their place in football history while denying Emma Hayes a fairytale ending to her illustrious Chelsea career.
Early Dominance Pays Dividends
Lyon asserted their authority from the opening whistle, with Ada Hegerberg breaking the deadlock in just the 21st minute. The Norwegian striker powered home a header from Selma Bacha's pinpoint delivery, setting the tone for Lyon's first-half dominance.
Chelsea struggled to find their rhythm against Lyon's organised defence and relentless pressing game, with the French side controlling possession and creating the better chances throughout the opening period.
Bompastor Makes Coaching History
The victory marks a monumental achievement for Sonia Bompastor, who becomes the first female coach to win the Women's Champions League twice. Her tactical masterclass against one of women's football's most respected managers in Emma Hayes demonstrated her growing reputation in the game.
Bompastor, who previously won the competition as a player with Lyon in 2011 and 2012, has now cemented her legacy from the technical area in remarkable fashion.
Cuthbert's Consolation Can't Spark Chelsea Comeback
Scottish international Erin Cuthbert gave Chelsea a lifeline in the 66th minute with a spectacular long-range effort that ignited hopes of an unlikely comeback. The midfielder's thunderous strike briefly levelled the contest and shifted momentum toward the English side.
However, Lyon's response was immediate and decisive. Just eight minutes later, Amel Majri restored the French side's advantage after Chelsea failed to clear their lines, ultimately securing the historic victory.
Record-Breaking Achievement
This triumph represents Lyon's sixth Champions League title in the last eight seasons, reinforcing their status as the dominant force in European women's football. The victory extends their record tally to eight titles, maintaining their position as the most successful club in the competition's history.
For Chelsea, the defeat marks a heartbreaking conclusion to Emma Hayes' final European campaign with the club, while Lyon celebrate another chapter in their remarkable footballing dynasty.
