One of the biggest stars in women’s soccer today, on Wednesday, made her return to the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The Chelsea forward did not find the target for the fourth game running as it finished 1-1 with Twente Enschede. Kerr’s appearance is an important first leap. Rachel has worked tirelessly to get back from a chronic ACL tear that kept her out of competition for 21 months.
Defensive midfielder Kerr came on in the 73rd minute, with Chelsea having just equalised, and played 23 minutes as a substitute. Since returning from injury, her only goal since came last month against Aston Villa. This game will be a key part of her long-term return to playing regularly at a high level. Despite not scoring, Kerr’s presence on the field is seen as a positive sign for both her club and the national team.
Recent Performance and Injury Comeback
Since her return, Kerr has only started one game and has come off the bench for the last five matches. Her most recent appearance was during Chelsea’s daunting group stage opener against Twente Enschede. This season the Champions League has been enlarged to 18 teams, flooding the competition with even more talent. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor took a huge gamble in leaving Kerr out of the starting eleven. She introduced seven new reforms to improve the squad’s productivity.
Bompastor said it was frustrating for his players not to be able to turn chances into goals.
“We had multiple situations in the box and 18 crosses, only six times we were first on the ball. This is not enough when you play a Champions League game.” – Bompastor
As for Kerr, she is doing wonderful in her recovery. She is now set to be a key player during the Matildas’ next two international friendlies against Wales and England. Coach Joe Montemurro has all but confirmed her involvement, indicating that her experience and skill will be vital for Australia’s preparations ahead of future competitions.
“We created a lot of opportunities and couldn’t score more than one,” – Bompastor
Looking Ahead: International Friendlies
Kerr’s experience will be key as the Socceroos look to build greater camaraderie and comradery within the squad before big tournaments arrive. Her return not only boosts Chelsea’s ambitions in the Women’s Super League but serves as an asset for the national team.
Kerr’s experience will be crucial as Australia aims to solidify team cohesion before major tournaments. Her return not only boosts Chelsea’s ambitions in the Women’s Super League but also serves as an asset for the national team.
