Barcelona require famous comeback to keep hold of Champions League crown

Jonatan Giráldez's side trail Chelsea 1-0 after the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

For Chelsea, it was a performance and a result for the ages. For Barcelona, it was the rarest of off days at the wrong time.

Erin Cuthbert’s goal gives Emma Hayes’ side a narrow advantage in the Champions League semi-final ahead of today’s second leg in London.

The Blues’ victory at the Olympic Lluis Companys Stadium was significant for many reasons and in large part, down to their brilliant defensive effort.

It was Barcelona’s first loss on home soil since February 2019. They trailed at half-time for only the second time this season and failed register a shot on target until stoppage time, when Alexia Putellas sliced wide from close range.

She fell to her knees in disbelief at that miss, which summed up Barca’s struggles last week as they failed to score for the first time in over two years.