The London club Return to Form with Resounding Thrashing over the Italian side
The Chelsea captain had brushed aside notions of a dip after a end of an unbeaten run, and a overwhelming half-dozen goal win in their final home Champions League group game put those thoughts to bed.
Fortuitous Start Gives Chelsea the Lead
An unfortunate deflection from the visiting captain sapped the resistance of Roma in the 13th minute, with additional goals added by Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, Maika Hamano.
Manchester United’s loss and a key draw late equalizer meant Chelsea moving into third place, within touching distance of skipping the playoffs to the Champions League quarter-finals.
Multiple Changes and a Early Pressure
Returning to the starting lineup since last month, Bright was one of several alterations to the side that succumbed to Everton at the weekend.
At their home ground, Chelsea applied early pressure. A chance from the French forward curled just wide in the opening minutes.
Despite a poor European season, Roma attempted to impose themselves, with Rinsola Babajide looking promising.
Chelsea Take Control
The own goal was a significant moment for the visiting team. The tide turned decisively Chelsea's way, and it was 2-0 before the half-hour, with the young midfielder slotting home after a headed assist from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd.
A merited advantage was stretched just prior to halftime, the goalscorer tapping home after the goalkeeper had parried an shot from Sam Kerr.
Adding to the Tally
After the break, a VAR-awarded foul was dispatched by Sjoeke Nüsken to make it four-nil.
The team continued to press in their quest for more goals, with the Everton loss perhaps fueling a response.
- A young midfielder went close to scoring on her third senior appearance, forcing a good stop from the Roma keeper.
- The Maika Hamano's effort came after an incisive run exposed a disorganized defense.
- The last nail in the coffin was a cross from the veteran defender that flew in at the far post.
Mission Accomplished
With the result and parallel matches going their way, Chelsea seized the initiative of their destiny to secure a place in the last eight.
A decisive trip away to European giants Wolfsburg will determine Chelsea and an direct passage to the next round.
