Girma's Dramatic Winner Seals Chelsea's FA Cup Progression
In a thrilling encounter at Kingsmeadow, Naomi Girma's 99th-minute goal propelled Chelsea into the quarter-finals of the Adobe Women's FA Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Manchester United. The match, which required extra time to decide, saw Chelsea maintain their cup defence after a resilient performance against a determined United side.
A Competitive Clash with Late Drama
The game unfolded as a critical moment in Chelsea's season, following recent setbacks that had diminished their league title hopes. However, securing their third consecutive win provided a significant morale boost ahead of upcoming challenges, including a League Cup final against the same opponents and a Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal.
Chelsea appeared refreshed after a week of preparation for this rematch of last year's final. Manager Sonia Bompastor made only one change to the lineup that defeated Liverpool in the Women's Super League, with Lucy Bronze replacing Sandy Baltimore. In contrast, United faced a quick turnaround after midweek European commitments, having secured their first-ever Champions League quarter-final berth by overcoming Atlético Madrid in a playoff.
Key Moments and Goalkeeping Heroics
The first half was dominated by Chelsea's attacking pressure, but United's goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce delivered a standout performance to keep the score level. She made crucial saves against efforts from Keira Walsh, Erin Cuthbert, and Alyssa Thompson, while also denying a dangerous cross from Ellie Carpenter. Just before halftime, Maya Le Tissier's brilliant recovery tackle prevented Lauren James from breaking through, showcasing United's defensive resilience.
After the break, United grew more adventurous, creating chances through Melvine Malard's goalbound header and Jess Park's powerful 20-yard strike that hit the woodwork. The breakthrough finally came in the 78th minute when substitute Sam Kerr fired a low shot into the bottom corner to give Chelsea the lead. However, United responded immediately, with Simi Awujo reacting quickest in the box to bundle home the equaliser.
Extra Time Decider and Looking Ahead
As the match entered extra time, Chelsea found another gear to secure the winner. A dangerous corner was headed onto the post by Buurman, and Girma pounced on the rebound to sweep the ball into the net. This decisive moment sealed victory in a match that served as an exciting prelude to their upcoming League Cup final encounter after the international break.
United manager Marc Skinner had emphasised the need for his team to manage emotions while competing on multiple fronts, but fatigue was evident as he made only one change to the lineup, with Ellen Wangerheim replacing Lea Schüller. Elisabeth Terland, recovering from a knock, was fit enough only for the bench.
This result underscores Chelsea's determination to succeed in cup competitions despite league struggles, setting the stage for a busy and pivotal month ahead in their pursuit of silverware.
