Joanna Rytting Kaneryd’s goal ensured Chelsea began life under new manager Sonia Bompastor with a 1-0 win over Aston Villa.
The Swede’s 36th-minute curled left-footed stunner was enough for the Women’s Super League champions to overcome a stern challenge from Villa, who were also managed by Robert de Pauw for the first time.
De Pauw’s impact on the Villans was clear to see in a promising display which saw Missy Bo Kearns miss a huge chance, with opposing goalkeeper Hannah Hampton kept busy throughout.
But ultimately Chelsea’s quality shone through at Kingsmeadow as they made the perfect start to their 2024-25 campaign.
The Blues are seeking a sixth title in a row this term but a first without legendary former boss Emma Hayes, who ended her 12-year reign at the end of last season.
Fans will have been encouraged by the first 90 minutes under Bompastor as her new-look side, which included new signing Lucy Bronze, kicked off a new era in West London.
The first goal of the 2024-25 #BarclaysWSL season and it is a banger 🤩
Rytting Kaneryd take a bow! pic.twitter.com/a3JqUf7HGS
— Barclays Women’s Super League (@BarclaysWSL) September 20, 2024
