Real Madrid women finally win in the Champions League, beating Paris FC 3-0

Three games, three draws, and a lot of pressure. On Tuesday night Real Madrid's women finally got their first win of this Champions League campaign, beating Paris FC 3-0 at the Di Stéfano stadium.

The goals came from Caruso, Beerensteyn and Linda Caicedo, all in the second half. The win takes Madrid to six points.

What happened?

The first half was slow. Madrid had plenty of the ball but little bite, while Paris FC sat back in a 4-4-2 and barely threatened. Caruso hit the crossbar with a header, and that was about it.

Colombian star Linda Caicedo started on the bench. She left Saturday's game against Athletic Club in pain, unable to put her foot on the ground. She avoided a serious injury, but coach Pau Quesada played it safe.

After the break, things changed. Andreia Jacinto won the ball and fed Silvia Cristóbal, who burst past three opponents. Schröder set up the chance, the Paris keeper saved, and Caruso slotted in the rebound. Beerensteyn, on for the booked Athenea, made it 2-0 with a crossed right-footed shot. Linda added the third.

The young ones who stood out

Quesada took a risk by starting two youngsters for the first time: goalkeeper Laia López and midfielder Irune Dorado. Both won the under-20 World Cup with Spain a month and a half ago.

Laia, who was playing her first minutes of the season, made a big save one-on-one with Sangare in the last minute. It gave Madrid its first clean sheet in 16 games.

What's next?

Madrid had drawn with PSG, Manchester City and Bayern Munich before this. Now the club's aim is still alive: finish in the top four of the league phase, which earns a direct place in the quarterfinals.

Reaching the semifinals for the first time is the goal the club has set publicly this season. This win keeps that door open.