1-0 in the group final away to Real Madrid means that Häcken is ready for the quarter-finals – and one of Europe’s eight top club teams.
Rosa Kafaji headed in the winning goal in the second half, on a cross from Monica Jusu Bah.
The conditions for the decision were good – and it never got really exciting.
Early help from Chelsea
Häcken’s further adventures in the Champions League were all but secured when Francesca Kirby and Mia Fishel gave Chelsea a 2-0 lead away to Paris in the first half. Victory for the clear group ten from London meant that Häcken could even lose in Madrid without losing second place in the group. Chelsea eventually won 4–0.
Already after 30 seconds, Häcken could have put himself in a position where no assistance was needed from Chelsea.
Clarissa Larisey found herself in an open position at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, should have scored, but goalkeeper Mylene Chavas steered it away for a corner.
Whereupon Anna Anvegård had an even sharper opportunity but shot wide.
– It’s a tough half. I think we played okay. We created two really good chances and should have scored, says Anvegård to SVT.
Brings in big money
The Swedish elite football on the women’s side is not exactly down with money. Steels can be picked up in the Champions League. Already before the meeting with Real Madrid, Häcken had drawn in six million thanks to his successful group stage.
Advancement to the quarter-finals topped up gross recorded premiums with 1.8 million.
In addition, tonight’s victory gave another approximately SEK 550,000.
The quarter and semi-finals will be drawn at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland on 6 February. The quarter-finals will be played on March 19-20 and 27-28. Semifinals await April 20-21 with returns a week later.
The final will be played at San Mamés in Bilbao on May 25.