Sam Kerr made a memorable return to Chelsea's starting lineup after 692 days, scoring twice in their emphatic 6-0 victory over St. Polten in the Champions League. Her last start for the team was on December
23, when they defeated Hacken 3-1 in the same tournament. Kerr's two goals came late in the second half, solidifying Chelsea's unbeaten run.
Chelsea began with intense pressure, leading to an early goal by Wieke Kaptein. She converted Ellie Carpenter's cross from close range in the 13th minute. Naomi Girma nearly doubled the lead with a header that hit the post and went in, but it was ruled offside against Kerr. Despite this setback, Catarina Macario extended Chelsea's lead before halftime with a precise shot into the bottom-right corner from outside the box.
The second half saw Chelsea maintain their dominance. Izabela Krizaj fouled Alyssa Thompson seven minutes after the break, resulting in a penalty. Macario confidently scored her second goal by sending Carina Schluter the wrong way from 12 yards out. The highlight for many fans came when Kerr received a pass inside the box, shifted to her right foot, and scored with precision.
Lauren James made her season debut as a substitute and contributed to Chelsea's fifth goal. Her shot deflected off Lisa Ebert and past Schluter just four minutes before full-time. In stoppage time, Kerr completed her brace by heading home Niamh Charles' cross, capping off a dominant performance.
Chelsea's clinical display was evident as they amassed an expected goals (xG) total of 5.39 from 43 shots on goal, with 19 on target. In stark contrast, St. Polten managed only one attempt with an xG of 0.02 against Livia Peng's net. Kerr stood out with team-high figures: 11 shots, five on target, and 18 touches in the opposition box.
Kerr's first goal marked Chelsea's milestone of reaching 150 goals in the Champions League (152 overall). This achievement places them among only eight teams to have done so and makes them just the second English club to reach this tally after Arsenal (196).
Managerial Insights and Team Performance
Before kickoff, Bompastor urged her team to be more clinical in front of goal—a call they answered emphatically with their dominant performance. The team's ability to convert chances into goals showcased their attacking prowess and determination throughout the match.
Chelsea's commanding win not only highlighted individual brilliance but also demonstrated their collective strength as they continue their impressive run in Europe’s premier club competition.
