Chelsea barely edge Austria Vienna in UWCL opener

Chelsea opened their UEFA Women's Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Austria Vienna at Plough Lane on September 23, 2026. Wieke Kaptein scored the only goal in the 11th minute, but the match was far more competitive than expected, with Vienna striker Modesta Uka hitting the post late in the game. Despite being heavy favourites under manager Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea were relieved to escape with all three points against the Austrian side making their first-ever appearance in the competition proper.