Chelsea Women’s football team showcased their dominance once again as they cruised to a 4-0 victory over Durham Women during the League Cup quarter-finals on January 22, 2025, at Kingsmeadow, Kingston upon Thames. The reigning Women’s Super League champions displayed high-energy gameplay, maintaining consistency and ambition for multiple titles this season.
The match kicked off at 18:45 GMT, with Chelsea fielding their starting eleven with strategic changes, making seven alterations from their recent victory against West Ham. Coach Sonia Bompastor introduced key players, including Guro Reiten as captain, who played central roles throughout the match. The lineup consisted of Zecira Musovic; Ashley Lawrence, Maelys Mpome, Nathalie Bjorn, and Niamh Charles; Sjoeke Nusken and Oriane Jean-François; Guro Reiten (c), Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, and Maika Hamano; with Aggie Beever-Jones leading the attack.
Durham, the only team from the Championship to reach this stage, faced the challenge head-on, with manager Adam Furness expressing pride and excitement at competing against the best. He stated, "We are excited to be here. We are proud to be here. We are the only championship team..." acknowledging the significance of the match for his players and fans alike.
The game unfolded with Chelsea imposing their style early on, reflecting their status as World Champions. The opening goal came through Oriane Jean-François, who capitalized on Reiten's corner kick deflected to the edge of the box. She struck it perfectly, sending the ball thundering past the goalkeeper, Tatiana Saunders, to double Chelsea's lead. The Barclays Women's Super League tweeted, "Oriane Jean-François tries her luck with a great volley," as she was celebrated for her stunning performance.
Following their second goal, Chelsea continued to press vigorously against Durham, demonstrating their capacity to maintain possession and create opportunities. Guro Reiten extended their lead just before halftime. A corner taken by Catarina Macario fell short, and Reiten quickly seized the moment. She shot from close range, taking advantage of Saunders' misjudgment as the ball slipped from her grasp, solidifying Chelsea's dominance at 3-0. Chelsea Women Daily reported, "4-0 Guro Reiten scores from close range," illustrating the seamless integration of the team's attacking players.
Durham had been realistic about their chances, with Furness noting the differences between playing against Championship and WSL teams, stating, "We have to be realistic in our approach..." He emphasized the need for his side to remain solid defensively, acknowledging the gulf in class and the high-speed play Chelsea exhibited. Despite facing overpowering competition, his players were also motivated to rise to the occasion, challenging themselves against world-class talent.
Throughout the match, Chelsea's strategy of high pressing and effective set-pieces proved to be pivotal. With their confidence bolstered by past successes, the team exhibited fierce coordination and tactical astuteness. Both fans and commentators praised their style of play, with optimistic projections for the remainder of the tournament.
The importance of this victory shouldn't be understated. Chelsea demonstrated their capability to go deep again this season as they eyes set firmly on the Women’s League Cup and other competitions. The prospect of securing multiple titles remains alive for them, and they look forward to continued success.
For Durham FC, the loss was undoubtedly disappointing, but it also served as valuable exposure against higher-tier competition. Furness encouraged his players to use this encounter as a learning experience, showcasing their capabilities. He expressed hopes for the future, stating, "If we could pull it off..." pointing at the aspirations of facing top-level teams more regularly.
Overall, the match was not only significant for individual performances but also highlighted the broader narrative of women's football—one where growth, ambition, and resilience play key roles. Chelsea continues to inspire with their spirited performance, and as they progress through the League Cup, the football world will be watching closely.
With the backdrop of this match, Chelsea Women reaffirm their status as formidable contenders, ready to challenge and redefine the limits of women's football at both domestic and international levels.