Chelsea Player Ratings: Kerr Shines in Women’s Champions League Rout

Chelsea player ratings took center stage as the Blues stormed to a commanding 6-0 victory over St Polten on matchday three of the Women’s Champions League league phase. This dazzling display featured Sam Kerr’s long-awaited return to the starting lineup and a brace from both Kerr and Catarina Macario, marking Chelsea’s 150th goal in European football—a truly historic night.

Chelsea Player Ratings: Champions League Statement

Chelsea player ratings soared after a near-perfect team performance in Austria. After 692 days away from the starting eleven, Sam Kerr made an emphatic comeback, leading the attack with energy and precision. Right from the start, Kerr was heavily involved, missing an early chance but relentlessly driving forward. Wieke Kaptein broke the deadlock in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a clever cutback from Ellie Carpenter—one of several Blues stars who impressed.

Defence: Solid and Supportive

Goalkeeper Livia Peng (6/10) had little to do but remained alert on a quiet night, deputizing for Hannah Hampton. Ellie Carpenter (8/10) was a dynamic force down the flank, not only assisting Kaptein’s opener but also providing defensive stability. Lucy Bronze and Naomi Girma (both 7/10) filled in at center-back, showing versatility and composure, while Sandy Baltimore (7/10) enjoyed greater attacking freedom once Niamh Charles joined the fray.

Midfield: Macario’s Masterclass

Catarina Macario (9/10) was a constant threat. Her technical quality and vision set the tone, scoring Chelsea’s second with a precise strike before halftime and calmly converting a penalty for her second. Macario nearly clinched a hat-trick, rattling the woodwork with a late free-kick. Keira Walsh (7/10) dictated play with assured passing, and Wieke Kaptein (7/10) was tidy and well-timed in attack.

Attack: Kerr’s Triumphant Return

Sam Kerr (9/10) marked her first Chelsea start since December 2023 with two goals. Her intelligent movement and persistence paid off, finally netting to make it 4-0 and later adding a sixth. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (7/10) provided creativity but was denied a first-half goal by Carina Schluter’s sharp save. Alyssa Thompson (7/10) won the penalty and had a goal ruled out due to offside.

Impactful Subs and Squad Depth

Chelsea’s depth shone as manager Sonia Bompastor rotated her squad. Veerle Buurman (6/10), Lexi Potter (7/10), and Sjoeke Nusken (6/10) gained valuable minutes. Niamh Charles (8/10) impressed in her half-hour cameo, while Lauren James (7/10) marked her return with a deflected shot resulting in an own goal credited to Lisa Ebert.

Key Moments: Chelsea’s European Milestone

Chelsea’s 150th European goal highlighted their dominance, with Kerr and Macario leading the charge. The Blues’ pressing and passing left St Polten unable to cope, and every outfield player contributed to the emphatic win. The result moves Chelsea up to second in their group as they chase continental glory.

Manager’s Tactics: Bompastor’s Winning Formula

Sonia Bompastor’s decision to rest key players paid off, allowing the squad’s younger talents to flourish while maintaining control throughout. Millie Bright, Nathalie Bjorn, and Erin Cuthbert were given much-needed respite, demonstrating the Blues’ impressive squad management.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Chelsea

This Women’s Champions League triumph reflects Chelsea’s strength in depth and clinical finishing, especially with Kerr’s successful return. As Macario continues to impress and squad players step up, Bompastor has multiple tactical options for the campaign ahead.

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Opinion: Chelsea’s Statement of Intent

Chelsea’s performance was a true statement of intent in Europe. With Sam Kerr back to her best and Macario adding a creative spark, the Blues look increasingly formidable. Squad depth and tactical flexibility are key strengths, and if this display is anything to go by, Chelsea are serious contenders for the Women’s Champions League crown.