Chelsea Women's Champions League journey came to an abrupt halt as holders Barcelona clinched a 2-0 victory at a packed Stamford Bridge, sealing a 2-1 aggregate win. Aitana Bonmati and Fridolina Rolfo found the net, with the match marred by a controversial red card for Kadeisha Buchanan.
Despite Chelsea's 1-0 lead from the first leg, Bonmati's deflected strike leveled the tie in the 25th minute. Chelsea squandered opportunities, with Melanie Leupolz hitting the crossbar and Lauren James missing a golden chance.
Buchanan's dismissal changed the course of the game. After receiving two quick yellow cards, the second one contentious, Barcelona capitalized on the numerical advantage. Rolfo converted a penalty won by Bonmati, sealing Barcelona's place in the final.
For Emma Hayes, defeat in her final home game also dashed hopes of a Champions League trophy before her departure. Attention now shifts to the Women's Super League title race, with Chelsea vying with Man City for the top spot.
Despite a spirited start from both sides, nerves crept in as the enormity of the occasion settled. Barcelona's quality eventually shone through, especially through threats from Lucy Bronze, Ona Battl, Rolfo, and Caroline Graham Hansen.
The visitors took the lead through Bonmati's strike, deflecting off Buchanan. Chelsea rallied but failed to convert chances, with Macario and James coming close.
Buchanan's controversial red card turned the tide in Barcelona's favor. Despite Chelsea's resilience, Rolfo's penalty sealed the win for the visitors, ending Chelsea's Champions League aspirations. It was a disappointing outcome for Chelsea, but Barcelona's experience proved decisive in securing their spot in the final.