Third time lucky: Can Barcelona finally beat Lyon in the UEFA Women's Champions League final?

Barcelona and Lyon have made the UWCL final | Imago

Third time lucky: Can Barcelona finally beat Lyon in the UEFA Women's Champions League final?

Ayoola Kelechi 15:16 - 29.04.2024

Barcelona and Lyon have set up a cracker in the final of the UEFA Women's Champions League after wins over Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain respectively

For Barcelona, the UEFA Women's Champions League final against Lyon represents more than just a chance at glory. It's an opportunity to overturn past disappointments and rewrite history. Twice before, Barcelona have fallen short against Lyon in the finals, but now, with renewed determination and a squad brimming with talent, they aim to seize their moment of redemption.

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As they prepare to face Lyon for the third time in the ultimate showdown, Barcelona's quest for victory is palpable. Can they finally break Lyon's grip on the trophy and etch their name in the annals of women's football history?

Barcelona and Lyon set up final showdown

Olympique Lyonnais showcased their prowess in the UEFA Women's Champions League with a stunning 2-1 victory over Paris St Germain in the semi-final second leg. The French giants completed a 5-3 aggregate win, setting the stage for a final showdown against Barcelona in Bilbao on May 25.

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In a captivating encounter against PSG, Lyon staged a remarkable comeback after trailing 2-0 in the first leg. Fullback Selma Bacha opened the scoring early for Lyon, but PSG responded with a goal from Tabitha Chawinga. Melchie Dumornay's late winner sealed Lyon's passage to the final.

Meanwhile, Barcelona showcased resilience in their semi-final clash against Chelsea. Despite a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge, overturning the aggregate scoreline and booking their spot in the final. Goals from Aitana Bonmati and Fridolina Rolfo propelled Barcelona to victory, disappointing Chelsea and their departing coach Emma Hayes.

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The final showdown between Barcelona and Lyon promises to be a spectacle. Lyon has a formidable record in the competition, having clinched the title eight times. Notably, they defeated Barcelona in the finals in 2019 and 2022 with convincing scorelines.

Barcelona's quest for redemption

Barcelona, however, enters the final with determination and momentum. Despite a solitary loss in the tournament, they demonstrated resilience and quality to overcome Chelsea.

Barcelona Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati | Imago
Barcelona Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati | Imago

Led by star players like Aitana Bonmati, Salma Paralluelo, and Caroline Graham Hansen, Barcelona aims to claim their third UEFA Women's Champions League title in four seasons.

Lyon's star-studded squad stand in Barcelona’s way

Nevertheless, Lyon boasts a star-studded lineup, including veteran midfielder Lindsay Horan, top scorer Kadidiatou Diani, and the prolific Ada Hegerberg. With history on their side and a wealth of experience, Lyon poses a formidable challenge for Barcelona.

Lyon captain Wendie Renard receiving the UWCL trophy from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin | Imago
Lyon captain Wendie Renard receiving the UWCL trophy from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin | Imago

As Barcelona and Lyon prepare to clash in the UEFA Women's Champions League final, anticipation is high for a thrilling encounter. Barcelona seeks redemption against Lyon, while Lyon aims to maintain their dominance in the competition. With both teams boasting exceptional talent and determination, the final promises to be an unforgettable spectacle in women's football.

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