Breidablik claimed a 0:1 victory over Chikshereda in the first qualifying round semi-finals of the UEFA Women's Champions League on Tuesday. The Icelandic side took all three points away from home at the 55th minute when Katelyn Duong got over the line. The result means Breidablik move closer to progressing in the competition.
Chikshereda started brightly enough but Bragi came in hot after the break. The visitors made two changes at the interval, bringing on Karitas Tomasdottir and Bryndis Nielsdottir in the 46th minute. They took the lead shortly after, Duong finding the net in the 55th minute to put the visitors ahead.
And here's the thing about the second half — Chikshereda were reduced to ten men's work ethic without the discipline to match it. They made several changes trying to find an equaliser, subbing on Anita Antal and Leila Szolomajer in the 60th minute. By then Breidablik had settled into their rhythm, adding Sunna Sigurdardottir and Elin Helena Karlsdottir to control the tempo.
The statistics tell one story, but the match told another. Chikshereda held 34 per cent possession compared to Breidablik's 66, and while the hosts registered seven shots on target, only one found the way. The visitors were more clinical, converting eight attempts on goal into a single decisive moment. Breidablik also won 12 corners to six.
What it means for the tie is straightforward — Breidablik now sit on the right side of the semi-final bracket. Chikshereda had earlier gone down 1:8 to the same opponents in August, and while this result was tighter, the gap between the sides remains clear. The hosts will need to regroup quickly if they want another chance.