London: Barcelona's Women's Champions League campaign is unstoppable as they defeated Rosengrad with a convincing 7-0 win and advanced straight to the quarterfinals.

With a stunning brace, Salma Paralluelo ensured the victory of the reigning champions.

The Spanish powerhouses won the competition for the fourth time in a row, continuing their flawless run. Today's match saw a stellar performance from Keira Walsh and Caroline Hansen, contributing to the commanding victory alongside Paralluelo. Barcelona seized control from the outset, leading 2-0 at halftime courtesy of Walsh and Hansen's strikes. The young sensation Paralluelo showcased her ball game, netting two goals before the hour mark, sealing Barca's quarter-final berth. The relentless onslaught included goals from Claudia Pina, Marta Torrejon, and an unfortunate own goal by Rosengrad's Jessica Wik.

Meanwhile, Lyon secured their spot in the quarter-finals despite a 2-2 draw against Brann. The eight-time champions initially led 2-0 through Amel Majri and Aga Hegerberg's efforts. However, a red card for Lindsey Horan and a late equaliser by Brann's Signe Gaupset disrupted Lyon's plans for a clear victory.

Lyon's coach, Sonia Bompastor, expressed disappointment despite their qualification, emphasising the desire for a more favorable result for her team. The group's dynamics shifted as Brann's draw pushed them closer to securing second place in Group B, with a six-point advantage over Slavia Prague and St Poelten.

In another turn of events, a tragic shooting incident in Prague led to the postponement of the Slavia Prague and St Poelten match. The unforeseen circumstances halted the game as the city mourned the loss of 14 lives.

The week’s earlier fixtures witnessed Chelsea securing a 3-1 win against Hacken, with Sam Kerr finding the net, while Real Madrid faced a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Paris FC, ending their hopes of advancing to the quarter-finals.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 23 2023

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