May 26, (THEWILL)- Barcelona women’s team retained their UEFA Champions League title and completed a historic quadruple by defeating Lyon 2-0 in the final in Bilbao, Spain. Ballon d’Or winners, Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, struck in the second half to seal victory over the French champions.
Bonmati opened the scoring in the 63rd minute with a deflected effort. Captain Putellas, who returned from an ACL injury to win the World Cup with Spain last year, came off the bench and added a late second goal in stoppage time.
The victory marked the first time Barcelona had beaten Lyon in five attempts. A record 50,827 fans witnessed the Catalans lift the trophy for a third time at San Mames Stadium. Lyon’s Sonia Bompastor, tipped as a potential Chelsea manager, with the departure of the legendary Emma Hayes, saw her team denied a ninth European crown.
Barcelona survived some close scares, with Lucy Bronze almost scoring an own goal and a Guijarro effort cleared off the line before the late Bonmati and Putellas’ strikes ensured they defended their Champions League crown.
The Spanish outfit secured the Liga F title earlier this month and added the Copa de la Reina to their achievements last week. After lifting the Spanish Super Cup in January, the women have now also claimed the UEFA Women’s Champions League title, completing an unprecedented quadruple.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
