LONDON — Wieke Kaptein's early goal gave Chelsea a winning start to their Women's Champions League campaign against Austria Vienna at the Cherry Red Records Stadium, but it was a far from comfortable evening for the Blues.
Kaptein struck early to put Chelsea ahead and that decisive goal proved enough for victory on home soil in Kingston upon Thames. Chelsea had to work hard to see out the result against determined visitors who refused to fold after the early setback.
The tie was framed as a classic David v Goliath endeavour, with the financial gulf between the clubs laid bare before kick-off. Austrian broadcaster ORF reported that Chelsea Women's personnel costs alone for the 2024/25 season at €17m were higher than those of the entire Austria Vienna club at €14.9m — including the men's department, by far the largest item.
UEFA also noted the contrast on the touchline, highlighting that Austria Vienna manager Stefan Kenesei holds a full-time job in state pensions insurance alongside his coaching role.