Felicia Schröder and Linda Caicedo celebrate one of the many goals for the Madrid side. Image: Real Madrid CF
Schröder and Linda Caicedo qualify Real Madrid for the Champions League league stage
Real Madrid Femenino beat Ajax 2-1 in the second leg of their Champions League qualifier to secure a spot in the league phase. Felicia Schröder and Linda Caicedo scored the goals for the Madrid side. Meanwhile, Katja Snoeijs netted for the Dutch team. The hosts capitalised on their 0-2 first-leg victory.
02 SEP 2026
Since the group stage was introduced in the 2021/2022 season, Real Madrid CF is the only team that has advanced from the group stage in all those editions. Pau Quesada opted for the same starting XI that featured in the Madrid derby. Just two minutes into the match, Schröder had the first chance with a shot that went wide. Keukelaar was also very active, with constant runs down the wing. Toletti had the first shot on target, but Liefting reacted confidently. Keukelaar also came close to scoring, trying her luck with a powerful shot from outside the box. Meanwhile, the young Van Koppel was lively on the visitors' side. Despite attempts from both teams, the score remained unchanged at the end of the first half. After the restart, Ella Touon found Katja Snoeijs, who executed a perfect volley to beat Frohms and score the first goal of the match. Following the goal, Pau Quesada reacted by bringing on Linda Caicedo to search for the equaliser.
Just ten minutes after conceding, Real Madrid CF, who had already been pushing for a goal with several chances from Schröder and another from Senss, who arrived fatigued for a one-on-one that Liefting won, found their deserved equaliser. Eva Navarro delivered a cross from the right wing, which Schröder comfortably headed in to level the score. The goal brought a sense of calm to the Madrid side, who now saw themselves as qualified. Ajax tried to respond, but the home coach brought on Caruso to strengthen the midfield, and Lakrar to shore up the defence. The last change for Madrid was Beerensteyn. Linda Caicedo sealed the decisive 2-1 victory. The Colombian scored a trademark goal to seal the match and unleash joy at the Di Stéfano. The stadium was a party to celebrate qualification for the league phase of the UEFA Women's Champions League, where Real Madrid CF will join FC Barcelona, with both teams being the two Spanish representatives.