VfL Wolfsburg beats PSG convincingly in Champions League opener
VfL Wolfsburg's women's team celebrated a 4:0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League opener. Coach Stephan Lerch's squad demonstrated strong teamwork, building on Alexandra Popp's performance. In contrast, FC Bayern suffered a 1:7 defeat against Barcelona.
VfL Wolfsburg, the Bundesliga leaders, started strongly in the women's Champions League. Against French runners-up Paris Saint-Germain, the Wolves won 4:0 (2:0) and celebrated their sixth consecutive competitive victory. The goals came from an own goal by Jackie Groenen in the 7th minute, Ella Peddemors in the 42nd, Alexandra Popp in the 90th, and Janina Minge via penalty in the 95th.
Alexandra Popp was particularly influential: She headed the ball on for the first goal from a corner and won possession for the second, which Peddemors converted with a low shot from Svenja Huth's pass. After halftime, PSG pressed for a comeback but squandered chances, while goalkeeper Stina Johannes made brilliant saves. Wolfsburg countered effectively, with Popp heading in the 3:0. The final goal was a penalty after Elisa De Almeida's handball, confirmed by video review.
"It was hard work. We fight for each other, and we showed that today," said scorer Peddemors. "We started well with the quick goal, then kept going. It was great to see how well the team worked together." This win builds confidence ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga top match. Upcoming challenges: Away at Valerenga IF on Wednesday and at Olympique Lyon on November 11.