London
Manager Emma Hayes says she is “overwhelmed” and struggling to express her pride at guiding Chelsea to their first Women’s Champions League final.
The Blues beat Bayern Munich 5-3 on aggregate, overturning a 2-1 first-leg deficit to win 4-1 and reach the final against Barcelona on 16 May. “The resilience in this group is just so unbelievable,” Hayes said.
“Of course I want to win the final, but I am going to acknowledge the achievement of making history.”
Chelsea reach Women’s Champions League final Relive the action from Kingsmeadow Late goals by Pernille Harder and Fran Kirby saw Chelsea clinch victory in an absorbing game at Kingsmeadow to ensure they will take on Barca in Gothenburg, Sweden.
“We put thousands of hours into what we do and I’m going to have a nice evening,” Hayes said after seeing her side survive a frantic finish before wrapping up victory in time added on.
“I’m overwhelmed with emotion. I can’t describe it. I almost can’t let the tears go.
“How do you describe pride you have for club you represent, for the people you represent? I’m a very maternal figure in here and I’m so happy for everyone.
I’ve wanted it so badly. It was the longest week in the world. I had to do everything to keep my emotions in check, keep training normal. I just wanted the game to come. I’m so happy it was an early kick-off.
“I’ve been in enough of these games now to know they’re never straightforward.—Agencies
