EINDHOVEN: Barcelona orchestrated a breathtaking comeback to defeat Wolfsburg 3-2 and secure their second Women’s Champions League title on Saturday. Patri Guijarro’s brace and Fridolina Rolfo’s winning goal propelled the Catalans to victory in Eindhoven, overturning a two-goal deficit at halftime.
Barcelona, under the guidance of Jonatan Giraldez, have now won two of the last three finals, following their triumph over Chelsea in 2021. They are solidifying their status as the primary challengers to the dominant eight-time winners, Lyon.
Despite having two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas on the bench until the closing stages due to her recovery from a knee injury, Barcelona showcased exceptional resilience. Match-winner Rolfo expressed her emotions, saying, “I never thought this would happen. At 2-0 down, I felt we could do it, but it was so hard. We showed so much mentality today, I’m so proud of the team.”
Wolfsburg took an early lead in the third minute when Ewa Pajor capitalized on a defensive error and found the back of the net. Barcelona had their chances to equalize but were wasteful in front of goal. The German side extended their lead on a swift counter-attack, with veteran forward Alexandra Popp heading home from Pajor’s cross.
However, Barcelona emerged from the break with renewed determination, aiming to avoid a repeat of last season’s final defeat to Lyon. Guijarro netted twice in quick succession early in the second half, first converting a cut-back from Caroline Graham Hansen and then heading home a cross from Aitana Bonmati.
Barcelona Supporters Provide Pulsating Atmosphere
The Barcelona supporters, numbering over 33,000 in attendance at the PSV Stadium, provided a pulsating atmosphere that fueled the team’s comeback. Wolfsburg struggled to regain their composure, and Barcelona’s third goal seemed almost inevitable. It arrived when defender Lynn Wilms inadvertently struck the ball at her teammate Kathrin Hendrich, allowing Rolfo to capitalize and seal the victory.
Barcelona’s remarkable turnaround left Wolfsburg stunned, as they endured their fourth final defeat since their last triumph in 2014. Reflecting on the loss, Wolfsburg captain Alexandra Popp expressed the pain of having the match slip away, while acknowledging Barcelona’s deserving win.
