June 03, (THEWILL) – Barcelona emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Wolfsburg in the women’s UEFA Champions League final, triumphing 3-2 after a stunning second-half comeback on Saturday afternoon.
The match was particularly poignant for Barcelona captain, Alexia Putellas, who described last year’s 3-0 defeat against Lyon in the final as “traumatic.” As she watched her team fall 2-0 behind in the first half from the bench, it seemed a sense of PTSD might be creeping in. However, any doubts were swiftly dispelled as Patri Guijarro netted a brace within five minutes of the restart.
Fridolina Rolfo completed the remarkable turnaround in the 70th minute, securing Barcelona’s second European title in three years. It was the perfect end to a final that, once again, delivered an explosive start for the third consecutive year. Barcelona, having benefited from an early opener against Chelsea in 2021, found themselves trailing against Lyon in last year’s final when Amandine Henry struck a wonder goal after just six minutes.
Ewa Pajor wasted no time in giving Wolfsburg the lead, pouncing on an opportunity inside the box within the first 200 seconds. Pajor, the competition’s top scorer this season, showcased her prowess by overpowering Lucy Bronze and unleashing her ninth goal of the competition, leaving goalkeeper Sandra Panos helpless. Although initially stunned, Barcelona quickly regrouped, launching wave after wave of attacks against Wolfsburg.
The Spanish side dominated possession and exploited the flanks, with Irene Paredes and Caroline Graham Hansen missing two clear chances from close range. In contrast, Wolfsburg proved ruthless in front of goal. In their second significant attack of the half, Pajor turned provider, finding Alexandra Popp, who doubled Wolfsburg’s advantage with a thunderous header.
However, Barcelona regained their composure after the break and orchestrated an incredible comeback. Guijarro capitalised on the team’s renewed vigour, netting two clinical finishes in quick succession before Rolfo completed the comeback.
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.
