They say a week is a long time in football — but for Chelsea’s Sam Kerr, it was nearly 99 weeks of patience, recovery, and determination. The Australian striker finally marked her first start for Chelsea in 692 days with a stunning performance, scoring twice in a 6-0 victory against St Pölten in the Women’s Champions League. It was a night of redemption and resilience as Kerr reminded the world why she remains one of the most lethal forwards in women’s football.
Player Overview
- Name: Sam Kerr
- Nationality: Australia
- Club: Chelsea FC Women
- Position: Forward
- Age: 32
- Return Match: Women’s Champions League vs St Pölten (2025)
- Goals Scored: 2
- Days Since Last Start: 692
- Injury History: ACL injury (January 2024)
- Total Career Goals: 300+ (club and country)
The Long Road Back for Chelsea’s Sam Kerr
Chelsea’s Sam Kerr last started a match on December 20, 2023, when she scored against BK Hacken before suffering a serious ACL injury during a training camp in early 2024. The setback kept her sidelined for nearly two years, testing her mental strength and physical endurance. Her return began with short substitute appearances earlier this season, where she scored twice in nine games.
But on Tuesday night in Austria, she was finally handed her first start since recovery — and she made it count. Kerr scored two well-taken goals in Chelsea’s 6-0 demolition of St Pölten, marking her comeback in perfect fashion.
Kerr’s Performance: From Rust to Ruthless
The match began with a few signs of rust as Chelsea’s Sam Kerr missed several early chances and even had a goal ruled out for offside. But as the game went on, she found her rhythm. Her first goal came from a perfect cross by Wieke Kaptein, which Kerr controlled brilliantly before finishing into the far corner. Her second was classic Kerr — intelligent movement, positioning, and a powerful header from Niamh Charles’ delivery that left the goalkeeper helpless.
After the game, Kerr shared her joy: “It feels good. It felt like I had to work myself into it, but yeah, happy to score. I’m just happy to be back out here playing in the Champions League again with an amazing team. I’m relishing every moment.”
Chelsea’s Sam Kerr admitted that the return felt “weird but sweet,” saying she had forgotten what it felt like to celebrate scoring after such a long absence. She emphasized how important it was to rebuild confidence and sharpness after nearly two years without regular starts.
“I didn’t score for so long that I forgot the feeling,” Kerr said. “I haven’t got that celebration thing yet — I’ve got to score a few more.”
Her resilience reflects not only physical recovery but also mental toughness — a quality that has defined her throughout her career.
Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor praised Kerr’s professionalism and perseverance. “It’s really important to have Sam back,” she said. “She gives us quality, experience, and leadership. When all your players are available, it allows you to rotate and maintain intensity.”
With players like Lauren James and Naomi Girma also returning from injuries, Chelsea’s squad is finally regaining its full strength ahead of a busy schedule that includes key Women’s Super League and Champions League fixtures.
Chelsea’s Dominance in Europe
Chelsea’s 6-0 win over St Pölten not only showcased Kerr’s brilliance but also highlighted the Blues’ attacking depth. Catarina Macario scored twice, Wieke Kaptein opened the scoring, and Lauren James marked her comeback with an assist. Chelsea dominated with 74% possession, 43 attempts, and 19 shots on target — a statement performance from the London giants.
The win moved Chelsea up to second in their Champions League group, setting the stage for their next big clash against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge.
Following her impressive return, Chelsea’s Sam Kerr is expected to feature in the Women’s Super League against Liverpool this weekend. With Aggie Beever-Jones recovering from injury, Kerr is likely to lead the attack once again. She also remains a key part of the Australian national team’s preparations for the upcoming Women’s Asian Cup in 2026.
Kerr said, “I feel 100%. I just need to build my minutes. I’m ready to go.” Her words underline her determination to regain full match fitness and continue leading from the front — both for club and country.
FAQs
1. How long was Chelsea’s Sam Kerr out injured?
Sam Kerr was sidelined for nearly two years due to an ACL injury sustained in January 2024, returning to full fitness in late 2025.
2. How many goals did Sam Kerr score on her return for Chelsea?
She scored twice in her first start after 692 days during Chelsea’s 6-0 win over St Pölten in the Women’s Champions League.
3. What tournaments will Sam Kerr play in next?
Chelsea’s Sam Kerr will continue in the Women’s Super League and Champions League, while also preparing to represent Australia in the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup.
4. How important is Kerr to Chelsea?
Chelsea’s Sam Kerr remains a vital part of the team’s attack, offering experience, goals, and leadership as the Blues chase domestic and European success.