James dazzles as Chelsea put one foot in UWCL semi-finals

Once more, Lauren James shines brightly, while Catarina Macario relishes a dream debut in the Champions League as Sjoeke Nusken's brace propels the Blues towards the semi-finals.

The English standout displayed electrifying performance as Emma Hayes' team edged closer to a potential encounter with reigning UWCL champions Barcelona.

Chelsea have practically secured a spot in the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-finals following their comfortable 3-0 triumph over Ajax in the first leg of their quarter-final clash on Tuesday. Although Ajax showed promise early on, defensive errors allowed Lauren James to give Chelsea the lead within the first 20 minutes, after Chasity Grant's attempt hit the post for Ajax.

Despite Ajax's attacking prowess, their defensive lapses were evident, particularly in the build-up to James' goal, where she capitalized on a defensive mistake, although a lengthy VAR check confirmed her offside position. Ajax's morale seemed to wane after conceding, allowing Chelsea to dominate proceedings.

Following a disallowed goal by Guro Reiten due to VAR, Chelsea extended their lead through Sjoeke Nusken, courtesy of Kadeisha Buchanan's skillful maneuver. Ajax's performance noticeably declined after conceding the second goal, giving Chelsea control of the match.

The second half saw the pressure shift to the Dutch side, yet they failed to create any significant opportunities, while Chelsea capitalized on counterattacks. Eventually, Sjoeke Nusken seemingly sealed the tie by converting Catarina Macario's excellent cross late in the game. With this commanding performance, Emma Hayes' team now holds complete dominance heading into the return leg at Stamford Bridge next week.

Goalkeeper & Defence

• Hannah Hampton (6/10): Made a first-half mistake that almost led to an Ajax goal, but recovered well and dealt capably with subsequent threats.

• Eve Perisset (7/10): Impressive on set pieces and limited opposition threats on her side of the field.
• Jess Carter (7/10): Initially had some questionable decisions but improved as the game progressed, displaying composure on the ball.

• Kadeisha Buchanan (7/10): Overcame a shaky start with a skillful turn and pass that led to an assist, and grew stronger defensively.
• Niamh Charles (6/10): Provided solidity in defense but had less involvement in attacking play compared to usual.

Midfield

• Melanie Leupolz (7/10): Demonstrated excellent possession skills and won numerous midfield battles.

• Erin Cuthbert (7/10): Showed determination in midfield, displayed good ball control, and positioned herself well in the final third, although missed a scoring opportunity.

• Sjoeke Nusken (8/10): Outstanding in a flexible role, causing problems for Ajax's defense with her movement and scoring two goals, with potential for more.

Attack

• Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (7/10): Constantly threatened the opposition with her runs and creativity on the wings.

• Lauren James (8/10): Showed alertness for the opening goal and provided a superb assist for the second. Impressed with her pressing.

• Guro Reiten (7/10): Denied a goal due to offside but quickly contributed an assist. Played a key role in the team's pressing strategy.

Subs & Manager

• Ashley Lawrence (7/10): Injected energy in the final minutes and contributed to the third goal.

• Catarina Macario (7/10): Made an immediate impact and provided an assist.

• Jelena Cankovic (N/A): Limited time on the field.

• Aggie Beever-Jones (N/A): Limited time on the field.

• Emma Hayes (8/10): Executed an effective high-pressing strategy, utilized James and Nusken effectively in free roles, leading to a convincing victory.