Updated / Wednesday, 2 Sep 2026 20:30
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Chelsea players celebrate Keira Walsh's goal in San Sebastian
Republic of Ireland international Katie McCabe was an unused substitute as Chelsea booked their spot in the Champions League league phase by completing a 6-2 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad.
The tie was effectively put to bed in the first leg when the Blues stormed to a 5-2 win, where McCabe played the full 90 minutes, assisting and almost getting on the scoresheet herself.
It was a more low-key event in San Sebastian, where Keira Walsh's 54th minute effort proved to be the only goal of a lacklustre encounter.
The England midfielder's strike subsequently secured Chelsea’s place in Friday’s draw for the league phase of the competition.
Blues boss Sonia Bompastor made four changes to the side that won 5-2 in London last week, with Lucy Bronze, Kadiesha Buchanan, Lexi Potter and Wieke Kaptein all starting, and McCabe among those to drop out.
Ellie Carpenter caused problems in the early stages of the first half by sending a series of teasing crosses into the box.
Lauren James blasted the ball past the post and Walsh latched onto another brilliant cross from Carpenter, but Julia Arrula easily saved before being called into action to deny Carpenter.
With the score goalless at half-time, Giulia Dragoni was introduced after the break to make her Chelsea debut.
Aggie Beever-Jones had the best chance of the game 53 minutes in after being played through by Carpenter and her strike was palmed away by Arrula.
However, from the resulting corner Chelsea suddenly opened the scoring from a short routine which reached Walsh outside the box and the midfielder curled the ball home.
Hannah Hampton pushed Ainhoa Marin’s strike behind for a corner as Sociedad enjoyed a brief threatening spell.
Nelly Las dragged a shot wide for Chelsea, who comfortably navigated the closing stages of the match to reach the league phase.