Chelsea's early goal forces a nervous night against Austria Vienna

Katie McCabe and Chelsea Women endured a stern test from Austria Vienna as they opened their Women's Champions League campaign at Plough Lane, securing a 1‑0 victory after Wieke Kaptein’s early strike. The match proved far tighter than expected, with the Austrian side defending resolutely and the hosts enduring nervous moments before holding on.

Wieke Kaptein scored after 11 minutes, a lovely effort that skimmed the underside of the bar and suggested the floodgates would soon open.

Austrian resilience tested

Austria Vienna dug in, refusing to be overrun by the far more expensively assembled opponents and even taking the game to them. A small but vocal cluster of visiting supporters serenaded the home side with a chant, while Kosovan forward Modesta Uka struck the post late on, leaving Chelsea relieved to escape with the win.

Second‑half drama and aftermath

Ellie Carpenter spurned a golden chance, Alyssa Thompson’s powerful run ended with a wide effort, and Keira Walsh was forced off injured after 20 minutes, a potential blow ahead of Sunday’s WSL clash with Arsenal. Goalkeeper Livia Peng palmed a short‑corner shot back into danger, allowing Virginia Kirchberger to head over the bar while off balance.

A near‑equaliser flashed when Louise Schoffel danced through the defence and hit a low shot that missed inches, and Sjoeke Nusken’s free‑kick was thumped into the supporters behind the goal from a Carpenter cross.

Despite the pressure, Chelsea’s number looked to be up when Uka hit the post, but the hosts clung on for a nervy win.

Sonia Bompastor had expected her side to steamroll the Austrian debutants, yet the match proved far tighter than anticipated. The victory, however hard‑won, gives the team a boost before their upcoming home game against Arsenal.