Chelsea secured their place in the Champions League league phase following a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the second leg of their third qualifying round tie on Wednesday. The win completed a 6-2 aggregate triumph for the English club in the match held in Spain.

The only goal of the game came shortly after halftime, in the 54th minute, when England midfielder Keira Walsh curled a shot into the net from outside the box. The goal followed a corner kick originating from an intricate short corner routine. Chelsea's attacking play was largely initiated by Ellie Carpenter, who delivered several dangerous crosses throughout the match.

Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor made four changes to the starting lineup from the side that won 5-2 at Stamford Bridge the previous week. Lucy Bronze, Kadeisha Buchanan, Lexi Potter, and Wieke Kaptein were all drafted into the starting eleven. Additionally, Giulia Dragoni made her debut for Chelsea after coming on early in the second half.

The game was relatively subdued, with Sociedad managing only a brief period of pressure late in the match. Chelsea appeared comfortable in maintaining their lead and did not allow Real Sociedad any significant scoring opportunities in the closing stages.

One of the highlights came just before the opening goal when Aggie Beever-Jones was set up by Carpenter for a clear shot on goal, which was parried away by Sociedad’s goalkeeper Julia Arrula. Chelsea then capitalized on the resulting corner to break the deadlock.

Earlier in the match, Chelsea missed some chances, including a close miss from Lauren James and a save from Arrula on a strike by Walsh following another Carpenter cross. Despite these missed opportunities, Chelsea’s disciplined defending and timely scoring ensured their advancement.

Chelsea will now await the draw for the Champions League league phase, scheduled to take place the day after their qualifying victory.