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      Campbell leaves Man City for a ‘new challenge’ following injury with Mewis and Lavelle set for USA return

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      MEGAN CAMPBELL has revealed she will leave Manchester City when her contract expires in June.The news comes as USA stars Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle confirmed their return the National Women’s Soccer League in America.
      Campbell has announced her departure from Manchester City after a five-year spell at the clubCredit: Getty
      Campbell, 27, decided to call time on her City career after being sidelined for most of the season due to a foot injury.
      And the left-back revealed it will be hard to leave the club she has been with since 2016, but that she was looking forward to a new challenge.
      Speaking to Man City’s website, Campbell said: “Leaving will be hard as Manchester has been my home for so many years.
      “It will be very different and take some adjustment, but I am excited for a new challenge and I am looking forward to seeing what that brings.
      “Thank you to all our fans for their non-stop support through it all – Manchester City will always hold a massive place in my heart.”
      The Republic of Ireland international’s injury meant she did not get the chance to play under City’s boss Gareth Taylor.
      But the defender, who made 45 appearances for the Manchester giants, thanked Taylor for the chance to work with him throughout this term.
      The former Raheny United player underwent surgery on a tendon in her right foot in February following damage sustained during City’s 4-1 against Tottenham in January.
      Campbell added: “Due to injury, I, unfortunately, didn’t get to play under Gareth but would like to thank him for the last year and the opportunity to work with him.”
      Republic of Ireland international Campbell has battled with a foot injury at Man City this seasonCredit: Sportsfile – Subscription

      Taylor, 48, was complimentary of Campbell’s contribution to City’s campaign despite her season be derailed by the problem with her foot.
      And the Academy stadium boss said he was pleased to have worked with the ex-Raheny United player during his tenure.
      Taylor said: “Unfortunately, due to circumstances outside of both our control, I haven’t been able to work with Megan on the pitch as much as I would have liked to.
      “She’s been a pleasure to have in the squad however and leaves Manchester City having made her mark on the club.
      “Playing her part in a number of the team’s successes, and we wish her nothing but the best in her future career, wherever that takes her.”
      Campbell sealed a 2016 switch to Man City under former gaffer Nick Cushing after a two-year spell with US college team Florida State Seminoles from 2013 to 2015
      Taylor said he was pleased to have Megan Campbell as part of his squad during his first season in chargeCredit: Getty
      And the left-back’s trophy successes include a 2016 domestic treble with Cushing’s side winning the Women’s FA Cup, the Conti Cup and a WSL title.
      Campbell later picked up two more FA Cups and League Cup during five year career at the club making 45 appearances.
      On her trophy wins, Campbell added: “I’ve played in Wembley in front of thousands of fans when winning the FA Cup Final, have won a league title in our home stadium and many more trophies that I’m so grateful for.”
      Campbell joins US pair Sam Mewis and Rose Lavelle who are reportedly headed back to their native country this summer.
      The USA aces are returning to America for a week-long break before joining NWSL clubs after the expiry of their short-term deals with City.

      Lavelle, who made 20 WSL and Champions League appearances for City will be moving to OL Reign.
      The USA forward had her playing rights traded to OL Reign by her old club Washington Spirit for £71,000.
      And Lavelle’s international team-mate Mewis will rejoin North Carolina Courage.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Rose Lavelle will join NWSL giants OL Reign after her rights were traded by Washington SpiritCredit: Rex
      Pep Guardiola reveals Jurgen Klopp text him with classy congratulations message after Man City’s Prem title win More

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      Stoney pays tribute to Man United fans and players while Siggsworth is linked with Leicester City move

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      CASEY STONEY paid a heartfelt tribute to Red Devils followers a day after Leicester City knocked her former side out of the Women’s FA Cup.  And the Foxes have been heavily linked with a summer swoop for Man United forward Jess Siggsworth, according to The Athletic.
      Casey Stoney says it has been “a privilege” to lead Man United WomenCredit: Rex
      Jess Siggsworth has been linked with a move from Man United to Leicester City WomenCredit: Getty
      This month Stoney, 39, announced her Red Devils departure after a three-year spell in charge of the club leading them to promotion from the Women’s Championship to the WSL.
      And she took charge of her last game as Man United boss overseeing the team’s FA Cup clash with WSL newbies Leicester City. 
      But the team suffered a surprise 3-2 loss to Jonathan Morgan’s aces who progressed to the contest’s quarter-finals to be played in September. 
      In a post shared with her 98,000 followers on Twitter Stoney wrote: “There are not enough words or actions that can do justice to how grateful and thankful I am to my players, my staff and the fans. 
      “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead this group of incredible people. 
      “They inspired me every day to work harder to be a better manager and a better person. 
      “I have memories that I will take with me forever!! They will always have a special place in my heart.
      “I would like to thank my family who have been by my side through everything. 
      “We have shared and celebrated the good moments together and they have given me strength and purpose in the tough moments. Thank you for standing with me always.”
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      Jess Siggsworth, 26, could also be set for a United departure with The Athletic reporting the forward could be on her way to Leicester City. 
      The former Doncaster Rovers Belles’ ace – who moved to United after a two-year spell with the Belles from 2016 to 2018 – is thought to be in advanced talks with the Foxes. 
      And it is reported the forward, who made 14 WSL appearances netting three league goals this term, is also a target for Tottenham. 
      Meanwhile, Siggsworth’s team-mate Lauren James has also been linked with a United exit amid reports of interest from Chelsea.  
      And The Athletic claims Red Devils players expect American superstars Tobin Heath and Christen Press to return to the USA. 
      The speculation follows a dramatic week for United amid reports of coaching staff’s concerns over training provisions for the women’s team and budgets for players and staff. 
      Leicester will compete in the Women’s FA Cup quarter finals in SeptemberCredit: Zuma Press
      This month The Telegraph revealed the ex-Red Devils boss had been dissatisfied with the training conditions for her players. 
      Training had been moved from the team’s Leigh Sports Village base to Carrington amid worries over injuries that have hindered the club. 
      And United saw their push for Champions League qualification derailed by injuries to several key players.
      Players included Alessia Russo and Tobin Heath as well as Leah Galton who made a return towards the closing stages of the WSL season.
      Man United director John Murtough says the club “is completely committed to its women’s team and to building on the legacy of Casey’s achievements”.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Shannon O’Brien was on target for Leicester City in their 3-2 Women’s FA Cup fifth round win against UnitedCredit: Rex
      Rio Ferdinand, Jens Lehmann and Robin van Persie star in BT Sports new women’s football series Ultimate Goal More

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      Chelsea boss Hayes promises Blues bounceback from heavy Champions League final loss to Barcelona

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      EMMA HAYES paid a touching tribute to Chelsea fans and vowed her beaten Blues will bounce back from Champions League heartbreak.And the Kingsmeadow boss described her team’s loss to Barcelona as another step in their journey after revealing her players’ post-match chat with club owner Roman Abramovich. 
      Emma Hayes says Chelsea will work hard on the training pitch after losing their first Champions League final clashCredit: Getty
      Barcelona Women won their first Women’s Champions League trophy after losing 4-1 to Lyon in the 2019 finalCredit: AFP
      Chelsea succumbed to a 4-0 defeat to Spain’s title winners in their first final in Europe’s elite club contest.
      And Hayes believes the performance of her side – who face Everton in the Women’s FA Cup – did not reflect the physical edge  of the WSL.
      Hayes said: “I think the physicality in our league that we have, we didn’t show that. So we’re disappointed. 
      “The realities are, if you don’t dominate enough of the first and second balls in any football match,  you don’t deserve to win it, and I don’t think we did that.
      “I think that’s what our dressing is most upset about. 
      “We’re a classy team and we behave I think as you should do when you’ve been beaten by a better team and that’s one that acknowledges what we need to do to improve. 
      “Our owner came in to see us. All the girls were very quick to tell him we’ll be back here and we’ll work hard on the training pitch to make sure we do that. 
      “If I know this group well enough I know they mean these words. 
      “And this is just another step in our journey, because – we talk about the disappointment – but we’re the second best team in Europe.”
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      Chelsea will face Everton in the Women’s FA Cup fifth round in their final game of the seasonCredit: PA
      Hayes’ players told Blues owner Roman Abramovich they plan to reach another Champions League finalCredit: AP

      Barcelona made history by being crowned as Spain’s first Women’s Champions League winners two years on from a 4-1 finals drubbing they endured against Lyon. 
      And the club’s victory entailed some standout displays including impressive wing play by Caroline Graham Hansen and Lieke Martens. 
      We wanted to be European champions and now we can say that we areLluis Cortes
      The result was the highlight of an outstanding season for the Lluis Cortes’s Catalan side who retained their LaLiga Women’s Crown
      And the Blaugranes did so after winning all 26 games they have played in Spain’s top tier with a match against ninth-placed Athletic up next.
      Lieke Martens and her Barca team-mates have won the LaLiga Women’s title as well as the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty

      Asisat Oshoala and her Barca team-mates will play Athletic in Spain’s top tier nextCredit: Getty
      Barca boss Cortes said: “It’s incredible, in Budapest last time (when we lost 4-1 to Lyon) we were like Chelsea were. 
      “There has been a lot of work since that day. That day we promised ourselves we would work a lot to be European champions. 
      “Behind us, there are many, many people and everyone has worked really hard for this goal. 
      “We wanted to be European champions and now we can say that we are.”
      Lluis Cortes says Barca have been working hard to achieve their first major trophy win in Europe.Credit: Getty
      Emma Hayes responds to Chelsea’s devastating 4-0 loss to Barcelona More

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      Chelsea 0-4 Barcelona LIVE RESULT: Barca win Women’s Champions League after routing Blues in first half

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      CHELSEA were beaten 4-0 by Barcelona after a first half nightmare in Gothenburg.The Catalans hit the bar after 30 seconds before going ahead with a freak own goal in the resulting melee afterwards.
      And the advantage was doubled after a controversial penalty 12 minutes before third and fourth goals inside 35 minutes as the Chelsea defence crumbled.
      HOPEFUL HAYES
      Emma Hayes was hopeful for the future after her Chelsea’s side 4-0 loss to Barcelona.
      She was confident her team will learn from the experience and do better the next time round.
      Hayes said: “I think it’s something we will learn from because this is the next step.
      The Blues boss tipped her hat to Barca and said they were worthy winners of the tie.
      Hayes added: “They’re a wonderful team and deserving winners and I will be gracious in defeat.”
      She also took pride in being the second best team in Europe.
      Hayes quipped: “And we’re the second best team in Europe, I’ll take that.”
      GIVE US A KISS
      Asistat Oshoala shows her love for the Champions League trophy by planting a big kiss on it.
      She didn’t start today but has been influential for the Catalan side in the competition.
      The striker scored four times this season, just two behind Kirby and Hermoso.

      LOSADA LAUGHS
      Barca captain Vicky Losada is all smiles as she lifts the trophy for her club.
      They thoroughly deserve their win tonight.

      LET’S STAY TOGETHER
      Emma Haye’s consoles her side after their loss with a speech at the end of the game.
      They’ll have to put today’s nightmare behind them for the season ahead.

      RUNNERS UP
      The Blues go up took collect their runners-up medals.
      They came so close this season, the disappointment is too much to bear for Fran Kirby who refuses to put on the medal.
      NEW RECORD
      Melanie Leupolz scored the fastest own goal in the Women’s Champions League this season.
      34 – Barcelona’s opener from Melanie Leupolz’ own goal is the fastest goal scored in the Women’s UEFA Champions League this season, with Chelsea conceding after just 34 seconds. Stunned. #UWCLfinal— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 16, 2021

      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      Barca become the first Spanish team to win the Champions League

      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      Chelsea look utterly distraught at the final whistle. The players are consoling each other as Barca celebrate.
      But the Blues can still win the treble if they lift the FA Cup.
      FT: CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      Barcelona have been crowned Champions of Europe!!
      They were just too strong for Chelsea on the night!
      The Spanish giants won the game in the first half and put the game out of the Blues reach.
      Lluis Cortes side have avenged their 2019 final loss against Lyon where they had lost 4-0 themselves.
      For Emma Hayes’ side it’s back to the drawing board and eyes on the prize again next season.
      PEEEPPPPPPPP!!!!! BARCA HAVE WON THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL!!!!
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      90. Barca just scored another through Asistat Oshoala but her strike was ruled offside.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      90. The Barca bench have already started celebrating, the Blues looked distraught.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      89. One minute left of normal time, Lluis Cortes’ side can’t wait for the final whistle.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      85. Barca have had to show their defensive strength in the second half to keep the Blues at bay.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      83. Chelsea are in desperate search of a goal as the game draws closer to its end.
      Barca have one hand on the trophy.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      80. Barca have a corner with ten minutes left of the game.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      77. Barca give away a throw-in, they’re looking a-bit tired now.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      75. Despite the score-line the Blues have had 12 shots on target compared to Barca’s nine.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      73. SUBSTITION
      Chelsea make a double sub as the minutes tick on. Ji So-yun and Sam Kerr are off as Erin Cuthbert and Beth England come on.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      69. Kerr, Kirby and Harder link up in the Barca penalty area but fail to make it count.
      It doesn’t seem to be their night.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      69. Carter puts in a strong tackle to stop Caldentey on the left flank.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      67. Harder gets her head on a Chelsea free kick in a dangerous position but Panos saves it comfortably.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      64. Hermoso attacks for the first time in the second half for Barca but puts it wide.
      Her and Kirby are still level in the race for the Golden Boot.
      CHELSEA 0-4 BARCELONA
      63. Charles whips it into the box, Kerr and Kirby were both waiting to pounce but Barca clear.
      Load more entries… More

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      Chelsea 0 Barcelona 4: Blues’ Champions League dream crumbles as Catalans smash FOUR in blistering first-half display

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      CAROLINE GRAHAM HANSEN helped brilliant Barcelona tear Chelsea to shreds consigning the Blues to European heartbreak in a four-goal blitz.A Hansen tap-in was among the efforts that saw Emma Hayes’ aces trounced 4-0 with Spain’s football queens winning their first Champions League trophy.
      Barcelona romped past Chelsea with a stunning first-half displayCredit: Getty
      The Catalans celebrated their first-ever Women’s Champions League titleCredit: Getty
      And it was the biggest winning margin for a side in the history of the contest.
      The Gamla Ullevi Stadium, the home of Sweden women’s national side, played host to the duel between the top dogs of the game in England and Spain.
      And it was fitting that the venue, just a stone’s throw from where Pele propelled Brazil to a famous 1958 World Cup quarter-final win, served as the backdrop for the four-goal thriller.
      For the first time in seven years the final for the elite prize of women’s European club football did not feature the tournament’s record winners, Lyon.
      Instead, all eyes were on two juggernauts seeking to become the new dominant club football force in Europe.
      And it was Barca who came out on top brushing their opponents aside with a devastating attacking display.
      Coming into this game, Lluis Cortes’ players had won ALL 26 matches they have played in Spain’s top-flight, scoring a mammoth 128 goals.
      And within a minute the team that dispatched Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain took the fight to the WSL champs.
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      What a start from Barcelona! 😲A rocket of a shot from Lieke Martens 💥Rattles the bar!Then the clearance hits Leupolz and loops over and into the back of the net 😖#UWCLfinal Live on Youtube & BT Sport 2 HD 💻/📺 pic.twitter.com/qchG8a5mJ5— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 16, 2021

      It took just 33 seconds for the LaLiga giants to get on the scoresheet stunning their rivals in the process.
      The Catalan team hit the crossbar with a ferocious drive off the edge of the box which found its way into the back of the net after rebounding off Melanie Leupolz.
      The Blues – shocked by that opener – attempted to work their way back into the game and saw a ninth-minute Pernille Harder shot saved before Magdalena Eriksson went close with a header.
      And Hayes’ aces had little time to regroup before their rivals doubled their lead.
      It was danger woman Graham Hansen who swept past Jess Carter to cut back a pass for Jenni Hermoso.
      And Spain’s all-time leading top scorer was brought down by Carter with Alexia Putellas converting from the spot in the 14th minute.
      Barcelona scored four goals in 36 minutes on Sunday nightCredit: AP
      The Blues were left heartbroken by the four-goal blitzCredit: PA
      The WSL winners watched on as Barcelona lifted the trophyCredit: AFP
      A Spanish side won the title for the first time after years of French dominanceCredit: Getty
      And there was little respite for the Blues with Spain’s top-flight champions tearing their defence open moments later.
      This time it was Lieke Martens jinking down the left to tee up Hermoso, who set up Aitana Bonmati to score Barca’s third.
      And the Catalan giants completed a 4-0 first-half demolition.
      Martens made another dangerous run into the box before shrugging off Niamh Charles to set up a Hansen tap in moments after the half-hour mark.
      The second spell saw a re-energised Chelsea attempt to battle their way into the game with Barcelona content to sit back and hit their rivals on the counter.
      Fran Kirby saw her 51st-minute shot blocked before a Niamh Charles’ cross narrowly missed the head of the leaping Sam Kerr.
      And Pernille Harder saw her 68th-minute effort – off the back of a Guro Reiten pass – find its way into the palms of keeper Sandra Panos.
      The Spaniards had a couple of late half-chances before wrapping up a memorable win.
      Emma Hayes’ side enjoyed a fantastic run to the finalCredit: Getty
      Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich attended the showdown in SwedenCredit: AP
      What. A. Start! 🔥 Excellent through ball from Hermoso to find Bonmati 👏 who finds the back of the net! Barcelona are on fire in the first half 👊#UWCLfinal Live on Youtube & BT Sport 2 HD 💻/📺 pic.twitter.com/iw7cxRQbud— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 16, 2021

      The result capped off an unlucky week of cup final losses for Chelsea with the Blues’ Premier League side falling 1-0 to Leicester in the FA Cup.
      But having reached their first final in fine fashion Emma Hayes will be proud of her sides’ achievements.
      And the WSL juggernauts are still on target for the treble with an end of season fifth-round Women’s FA Cup clash with Everton to come this month.
      Penalty! 😯Hermoso is clipped in the box as she goes to shoot 👀Alexia steps up and puts it in the bottom corner for Barcelona ⚽#UWCLfinal Live on Youtube & BT Sport 2 HD 💻/📺 pic.twitter.com/fXb8vOPFMh— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 16, 2021

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      Leicester celebrate with the trophy after they win the FA Cup More

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      Chelsea vs Barcelona: FREE live stream, TV channel, kick-off time and team news for Women’s Champions League final 2021

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      CHELSEA can do the Super League and Champions League double this season if they beat Barcelona in the biggest game in European football.Emma Hayes’ side have been superb this season and after crushing Bayern Munich 4-1 in the second leg of their semi-final, take to the pitch at Gamla Ullevi in Sweden.
      Both Chelsea and Barcelona can win the Women’s Champions League for the first time
      But they face formidable opponents in Barcelona, who finished their domestic Spanish season with a 100 PER CENT record, picking up 78 points from 26 games.
      However, neither of these two clubs has ever lifted the trophy.
      Here is all you need to know about the showpiece final.
      When is Chelsea vs Barcelona and what time does the Women’s Champions League final kick off?

      Chelsea face Barcelona on Sunday, May 16.
      The Women’s Champions League final kicks off at 8pm UK time.
      There will be no fans at the Gamla Ullevi stadium in Gothenburg.

      What TV channel is the final on and can I live stream it for free?
      The match is being broadcast on BT Sport 2 in the UK.
      Coverage begins at 7.15pm from the broadcaster.
      You can live stream the match on BT Sport’s website and on the BT Sport app for mobile and smart TV.
      Can I get a BT Sport subscription for FREE?

      EE customers can get BT Sport INCLUDED to their plan at no extra cost if they are on a plan with Smart Benefits – simply log in to EE and choose BT Sport app.
      And then get it on the big screen by texting SPORT to 150 to get a FREE three-month trial of large screen so you can cast all the action on your TV.
      At the end of the three months you will automatically roll onto the £15 per month subscription unless cancelled.

      What is the team news?
      Chelsea have no suspensions but right back Maren Mjelde is injured for the Blues.
      Barcelona will be without defender Andrea Pereira who is suspended, while Andrea Falcon is injured. More

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      Chelsea ace Harder says playing in Champions League final alongside partner Eriksson is a ‘dream’

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      PERNILLE HARDER says vying for Champions League glory alongside her partner Magda Eriksson is a dream come true. The inspirational Chelsea couple hope to win their first European trophy by helping the Blues topple Barcelona in Sweden. 
      Pernille Harder would love to see Magda Eriksson lift the Champions League trophy if Chelsea beat BarcelonaCredit: Getty
      Blues skipper Eriksson hopes to lead Chelsea to their first European trophy winCredit: PA
      The Denmark superstar and Blues captain Eriksson –  who are popular role models in the LGBTQ community – became a couple whilst playing for  Swedish outfit Linkoping in 2014.
      And Harder will be aiming to triumph in a Blues vest having twice suffered defeat in the 2018 and 2020 finals with former club Wolfsburg. 
      Harder, 28, said: “We talked about it the other day.
      “If we would have thought six years ago when we were at Linkoping that we would eventually play a Champions League final together, this would have been the biggest dream for us.  
      “And now we get to do it and it’s amazing. The biggest thing would be to see Magda lift the trophy. That would be a very proud moment for her and me also.
       “On and off the pitch, no matter what we are competing in, we both have a winning mentality.
      “It’s not the end if we win the Champions League this season, because we want to win the title and the Champions League again. 
      “For me it’s about the memories and feelings that football brings. 
      “The good thing is that we are super honest with each other on the pitch and we always leave football stuff on the pitch when the game is done.” 
      Eriksson, Harder and their Chelsea team-mates won the 2020-21 WSL titleCredit: Prime Media

      All eyes will be on the WSL champs fearsome attacking trio of Fran Kirby, Sam Kerr and Harder who have netted 13 times in the contest so far.
      Against Bayern Munich, in the semi-finals, Harder demonstrated why Chelsea broke the women’s football transfer record to sign her from Wolfsburg for £250,000 in September 2020. 
      The midfielder’s bullet header helped Chelsea demolish Bayern 4-1 in a dramatic second leg battle.
      And the Uefa Women’s Player of the Year says the pressure of being the world’s most expensive women’s signing is something she takes in her stride. 
      Harder added: “Everyone thinks you can do everything on the pitch when you have that price. 
      “It puts some pressure, or some expectations at least. 
      “But handling expectations is something I’ve been working with in the last five or six years.
      “I knew how to handle it and to focus on my game and adapt to the team.” 
      Harder’s semi-final bullet header against Bayern Munich helped Chelsea reach their first Women’s Champions League finalCredit: Getty
      Emma Hayes’ aces will face a Barcelona side who stormed their way to a sixth domestic league title following a 26-game unbeaten run and a tally of 126 goals. 
      The teams will go head-to-head in the Gamla Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, the home of Sweden’s women’s team whose players include Blues skipper Eriksson.
      And Harder is confident Chelsea – who won their fourth WSL title – can defeat the queens of the women’s game in Spain. 
      It will be a tough game for sure, but we are also a great team so I think it will be a good finalPernille Harder
      The Dane ace was part of the Wolfsburg side that knocked Barca out in 2020.
      The Blues star said: “I played against them last year and I think they did really good. They have a lot of great players and are a good possession team. 
      “It will be a tough game for sure, but we are also a great team so I think it will be a good final.”
      Harder reckons the quality and depth of Chelsea’s squad has been one of the biggest advantages for the team who have won a league cup and WSL title this term
      And the Denmark midfielder – who is her country’s joint all-time top scorer with 65 international goals – said she had been monitoring Chelsea’s progress for a long period before joining the side.
      Harder added: “I’ve been following the team for a long time. Obviously, with Magda playing here, I saw the development of the team. 
      “I felt like it was so interesting to see what happens, and I just felt like I wanted to be a part of it, and also be in the English league. 
      Chelsea may have to contend with ex-Arsenal aces Asisat Oshoala and Vicky Losada when they play BarcelonaCredit: EPA
      “That was what mostly was my motivation to come to Chelsea, but obviously I’d also heard a lot about Emma. 
      “Even though sometimes in games we might not have played the best football, we always find a way to win. 
      “That’s because we have so many players who can be the game-changer. 
      “If someone has a bad day, there is someone else who is stepping up. That’s really something, I think, that has made us come so far this season.”
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Emma Hayes and her players hope to win the quadrupleCredit: PA
      Emma Hayes gets stuck into Chelsea training More

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      Chelsea out to make history and join Arsenal as only English Women’s Champions League winners

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      ARSENAL are still the ONLY English club to have carved its name on to the Women’s Champions League trophy.And my name is written in the history books for scoring the winner in the final against Swedish side Umea in 2007.
      Emma Hayes wants to lead Chelsea to Champions League gloryCredit: Getty
      Alex Scott scored the winner in the 2007 Champions League finalCredit: Getty
      We went in as total underdogs not expected to win the competition that was then known as the Uefa Women’s Cup.
      The clock was ticking in the dying seconds of the game when the ball fell to me from far outside the box.
      With the scores stubbornly locked at 0-0 I knew what I had to do.
      I took a touch, looked up and sent a sweet, long-range strike dipping and curling beyond the Umea goalkeeper.
      There was stunned silence before I realised what had happened as mayhem ensued on the Arsenal bench.
      It was the only goal over the two legs and of course my name made all the headlines.
      But it was the WHOLE team and our hero goalkeeper Emma Byrne who propelled the club to European glory.
      It was never about one player,   which the game never should be.
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      Years later when  I bitterly watched the Germans lift the European Championship trophy in 2013, Hope Powell gave me some pearls of wisdom.
      After England were spanked in the group stages the Lionesses boss told me: “Remember this feeling because you’ll never want to experience it again.”
      Those words of wisdom should be etched in every Chelsea player’s mind today as they go toe-to-toe with Barcelona in their first Champions League final.
      They’ve tasted defeat on the European stage after they crashed out in the semi-finals to Paris Saint-Germain in 2019.
      Every one of those Blues aces deserves to be at the Gamla Ullevi stadium in Sweden tonight.
      But I don’t want them to be the ones with their heads hanging in shame while Barca lift the trophy.
      Boss Emma Hayes will not rest on her laurels and she’s got one last hurdle to make history.
      When Chelsea made Pernille Harder the most expensive player in the history of women’s football in 2020, it was a real statement of intent.
      The final between Chelsea and Barcelona will take place in Gothenburg’s Gamla Ullevi stadiumCredit: EPA

      They had just won the WSL for a third time and the Continental Cup for the first time.
      Hayes had every domestic trophy in her cabinet – and her sights were set on that elusive European stage.
      Cue Harder, who put the Blues 4-3 up on aggregate against Bayern in the dying moments of the Champions League semi-final second leg, before Fran Kirby secured victory in stoppage-time.
      Blues may have broken the bank for the Denmark star but that winning strike was priceless.
      You could tell by the emotion on Hayes’ face.
      But keeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who joined in January 2019, has also been crucial in the quest for a European trophy.
      Harder, Sam Kerr and Kirby will get all the plaudits but Berger has been sensational.
      Every single one of those Chelsea players has had key moments to get them on the brink of toasting Champions League glory tonight.
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