Sam Kerr on a hat trick as Chelsea Women thrash Paris FC

• Chelsea Women hosted Paris FC in the UEFA Women Champions League on Thursday evening
• The Blues were looking for their first UWCL win of the season 
• A hat trick by forward Sam Kerr sealed a 4-1 victory for the Blues who moved to within two points of group leaders BK Hacken

Chelsea displayed an impressive performance, securing a convincing 4-1 victory against Paris FC, with Sam Kerr scoring a hat-trick leading them to their first UEFA Women Champions League win of the season. Despite a momentary setback with Paris FC’s equalizer in the first half, Chelsea demonstrated resilience and dominated the tournament debutants at Stamford Bridge.

The match commenced with an unusual subdued start from Chelsea, allowing Paris FC to dictate the tempo for the initial 20 minutes. However, both teams struggled to create significant goal-scoring opportunities during this period. A crucial turning point occurred when Paris FC’s defender, Thea Greboval, made a critical error, playing a casual and wayward pass from the edge of the box. Erin Cuthbert intercepted the ball, setting up a chance for Lauren James, whose subsequent cross was expertly turned in by Sam Kerr, Chelsea’s hat-trick hero from their previous match against Liverpool.

Despite taking the lead, Chelsea experienced a momentary lapse as Paris FC retaliated with a well-executed equalizer. Gaetane Thiney delivered a precise corner from the right, finding the head of Greboval, who rose above the defense to loop the ball into the net. The scoreline was level, and the momentum seemed to be shifting towards the visitors.

However, the halftime interval proved to be a turning point for Chelsea. The team emerged with renewed determination, and within two minutes of the second half, Fran Kirby initiated a crucial play that led to Chelsea regaining the lead. Rytting Kaneryd’s well-timed cross found Kerr, who capitalized on the opportunity with a poacher’s finish, making it 2-1 in favor of Chelsea.

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Chelsea women forward Sam Kerr celebrates after scoring against Paris FC in a UEFA Women Champions League clash on Thursday, 23 November 2023. | PHOTO: Sky |

Sam Kerr continued her scoring spree, completing a remarkable hat-trick and extending Chelsea’s lead. Ann-Katrin Berger’s precise kick set up the Australian striker, who displayed impeccable control, lifting the ball over the Paris FC goalkeeper to make it 3-1. With a comfortable advantage, Chelsea showcased their superiority, effectively sealing the victory.

Despite Paris FC’s commendable efforts to stay competitive, Chelsea’s dominance became increasingly evident. The final blow came in stoppage time when substitute Sophie Ingle capitalized on a corner, sliding the ball home unmarked to secure a comprehensive 4-1 win for Chelsea.

This match highlighted Chelsea’s ability to overcome challenges and showcased the lethal finishing skills of Sam Kerr. As the team seeks to bid farewell to their departing manager, Emma Hayes, with a coveted Champions League medal, this emphatic victory serves as a strong statement of intent for Chelsea’s aspirations in the ongoing tournament. The comprehensive win not only reinforces Chelsea’s position as a formidable contender but also sets the stage for an exciting and promising Champions League campaign ahead.

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In retrospect, Chelsea’s initially subdued start and the brief scare from Paris FC’s equalizer underscored the unpredictable nature of football. However, the team’s ability to regroup at halftime and come out with renewed determination showcased their mental resilience and adaptability on the field. The impact of key players, such as Fran Kirby’s pivotal role in the build-up to the second goal, and the clinical finishing of Sam Kerr, cannot be overstated in the context of this victory.

As Chelsea looks ahead in the Champions League, the team’s performance in this match provides a blueprint for success — a combination of individual brilliance, tactical adaptability, and a collective determination to secure positive results. The upcoming fixtures will undoubtedly pose new challenges, but if Chelsea can maintain this level of performance, they will be a formidable force in the competition.

The comprehensive 4-1 win against Paris FC not only secured three crucial points but also served as a morale boost for Chelsea as they aim to navigate the challenging waters of the Champions League. The team’s bid to send off departing manager Emma Hayes with a Champions League medal began on a high note, and the players’ commitment on the field indicates a collective hunger for success.