Chelsea Women vs Manchester City Women: Tactical Analysis & Match Report (3-0)

Rapid Transitions and the Opening Goals

The Blues' ability to capitalize on turnovers was a defining factor in their comeback. The first goal was a prime example of this philosophy in action.

The sequence began with a Manchester City throw-in from their defensive half. Chelsea instantly won possession and quickly transitioned forward. Lucy Bronze received the ball on the right, and despite City having numbers back, their defensive shape was not fully settled. Bronze played a quick give-and-go with Ramirez, whose strong hold-up play set her up for a brilliant outside-of-the-boot strike that rattled the far post.

While City’s defense initially seemed secure, Bompastor’s emphasis on fullback involvement paid dividends. Sandy Baltimore, advancing from deep, was unmarked as the City right-back was preoccupied with James. As the rebound fell to her, Baltimore produced a clinical finish to open the scoring.

Chelsea’s second goal followed a similar pattern. Once again, it stemmed from a City throw-in—this time in Chelsea’s half. After an intense press, Chelsea won the ball, and Ramirez carried it into the final third, delivering a cross that resulted in a corner. From the set piece, Baltimore delivered a pinpoint cross, which Bjorn converted to double Chelsea’s lead and level the aggregate score at 2-2.