Since the Conti Cup final loss, the Chelsea Women have been determined to right the ship with its biggest test of the season now on tap next.
This is it. When the Chelsea Women were placed in the Champions League quarterfinal draw a month ago, Lyon was bound to be the opponent. This is the campaign where the Blues put it all together on the highest stage.
Emma Hayes’ side fell dramatically out of European football far too early last season. This time around, this group has the opportunity to put their stamp on women’s football by going through arguably the toughest path to a Champions League title this competition has seen.
Chelsea Women to face Olympique Lyon in Champions League quarters
The Blues are back on track. Arsenal’s one-goal comeback at Selhurst Park did not take the wind out of this team’s sails whatsoever. The Conti Cup has been a competition that is of least importance compared to the other major three Chelsea Women is still competing to collect.
For the second time in both of the club’s histories, the top dog in France will meet the Women’s Super League’s non-stop freight train. Lyon edged the Blues by just one goal last time out in 2019 in the Champions League with a goal by Amandine Henry in the first leg of the tie.
The two teams met in the preseason tournament in Portland, Oregon, but not much can be taken from that. Unlike four years ago, this Emma Hayes side is not frightened whatsoever by the current Champions League holders.
Emma Hayes was able to provide some of her top class players with much-needed rest with Lyon right around the corner.
A good day at the office! 👌#WomensFACup pic.twitter.com/DDuj5JQSce
— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) March 19, 2023