Harder scores late equaliser in Wolfsburg thriller

 

Chelsea’s former Wolfsburg striker Pernille Harder snatched an added-time equaliser against her old side after a catalogue of errors had threatened to derail their start to the Women’s Champions League.

Emma Hayes’ side looked like being architects of their own downfall as three defensive mistakes handed the advantage to the visitors only to rescue a 3-3 draw in the second minute of additional time.

It was far from the ideal opening to the Champions League group stage the Londoners wanted after their 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in the final in May, but their problems were all of their own making.

Having taken an early lead through Sam Kerr, some indecision in defence gifted goals to Wolfsburg strikers Tabea Wassmuth and Jill Roord and then, to compound matters, another error shortly after half-time saw Wassmuth double her tally.

Bethany England’s smart volley gave Chelsea 39 minutes to salvage something but they left it late, although the draw leaves them two points behind Group A leaders Juventus.