The Chelsea captain had rejected talk of a crisis in the wake of a first league defeat, and a overwhelming half-dozen goal win in their penultimate Champions League group game put those thoughts to bed.
Fortuitous Start Sets the Tone
An unfortunate deflection from the visiting captain sapped the resistance of Roma early on, with subsequent goals added by Sjoeke Nüsken, a host of Chelsea players.
Lyon’s 3-0 defeat and Atlético Madrid’s late equalizer resulted in Chelsea occupying third place, on the brink of a direct spot to the European quarter-finals.
Multiple Changes and a Bright Start
Returning to the starting lineup since mid-November, Bright was one of several alterations to the side that lost to Everton at the weekend.
At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea began with intent. A chance from Sandy Baltimore curled just wide in the opening minutes.
Even with a disappointing Champions League campaign, Roma showed early signs to make a statement, with Giulia Dragoni looking effective.
The Floodgates Open
The own goal was a significant moment for the visiting team. Momentum swung decisively Chelsea's way, and it was two-nil before the 30-minute mark, with Wieke Kaptein converting after good work from the Swedish winger.
A deserved lead was increased shortly before halftime, the Swede tapping home after the Lukasova had kept out an initial effort.
Relentless Pursuit
After the interval, a penalty was scored by the German to make it four goals to the good.
The team showed no mercy in their search for more goals, with the recent defeat perhaps lighting a fire.
- A young midfielder went close to scoring on her promising cameo, forcing a fine save from the Roma keeper.
- The next strike came after Guro Reiten's run exposed a disorganized defense.
- The Lucy Bronze special was a sweeping ball from the England international that found the net at the far post.
Mission Accomplished
Following the win and other results going their way, Chelsea took charge of their fate to secure a place in the last eight.
A final match away to formidable opponents Wolfsburg will determine Chelsea and an playoff-free route to the next round.