Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Women's Champions League match.
One of the main contenders for the Women's Champions League title, Chelsea, will test Real Madrid in the first group stage match. The team from Madrid has yet to establish stable competition with Barcelona domestically, and in London, they are unlikely to cope with the group favourites.
Chelsea (women)
In last season's European campaign, Chelsea lost to Barcelona in the semifinals, winning away (1:0), but were let down by Kadeisha Buchanan's sending-off in the return leg (0:2). Despite the national championship starting quite late, the English side is in great form as they approach the start of the Champions League, having dispatched Aston Villa (1:0) and Crystal Palace (7:0) in the league. Chelsea's Lauren James – sister of the men's team captain – remains in fine form and is even vying for the Ballon d'Or.
Real Madrid (women)
In the Women's Champions League qualifiers, Real Madrid had a hard-fought win over Sporting CP, conceding twice over 180 minutes (2:1 and 3:1). In the Spanish league, they trail Barcelona only due to goal difference – both teams have 15 points, but the Catalans have scored 10 more goals (25 to 15). On Friday, they narrowly defeated Valencia FCF (1:0), having a significant advantage in shots on target (9-2).
Chelsea (women) vs Real Madrid (women) Prediction
It's worth noting that Real Madrid will be missing Oihane Hernández due to injury, and the absence of their wing-back will make things tougher. In January, Chelsea defeated the Spaniards at home (2:1) – and the team has the quality to secure another win.
