You did us proud! [3-2, 0-3 after penalties]

From the outset, it was clear that this was going to be a game of the very highest quality, with intensity and ambition on both sides. Katja Snoeijs had the first chance (11’). Wolfsburg, accustomed to big occasions such as this, responded in kind. Roord (16’) and Lattwein (17’) both came close. The game so far was very delicately poised, and it took some individual errors to open things up. The Germans struck first, with Pajor pouncing on a poor clearance to fire past Anna Moorhouse (0-1, 25’). Bordeaux responded ten minutes later, when Maëlle Garbino fired in a cross from the left flank and Katja Snoeijs capitalised on a moment of confusion in the Wolfsburg defence to equalise (1-1, 35’) with her 4th goal of the season.

After two more chances for the visitors (44’ and 45’+1) the referee blew up for half time. So far this had been a very entertaining top-level encounter, but there was so much more to come. You might call it the magic of European football. Bordeaux started the second period on the front foot, with Sisca Folkertsma coming within a hair's breadth of smashing in another cross from the uncontrollable Maëlle Garbino (46’). Katja Snoeijs was also on scintillating form, and soon had another sight of goal (49’). But the break came courtesy of a moment of pure genius from Melissa Gomes. Having replaced Claire Lavogez at half time, she marked her arrival with a sublime goal, a right-footed volley from a Vanessa Gilles cross (2-1, 65’). The thousands of fans in Stade Moueix went wild.

Bordeaux were now in the lead, with the game heading for extra time… But Wolfsburg were not done yet. The dedication, courage and tenacity of this incredible Girondines team were magnificent to behold. They fought heart and soul, putting in tackle after tackle, throwing themselves heroically into every challenge… And when Pajor somehow found some space inside the box Bordeaux even had some help from the crossbar (90’+1).  Bordeaux were under the cosh throughout extra time, with chances coming thick and fast for the visitors (94’, 101’, 110’, 114’). Naturally enough, Pajor equalised (2-2, 102’). Surely it was all over now… But no! Just when you thought they had no more left to give, Bordeaux embarked on one last daring attack. Mickaëlla Cardia picked up the ball on the right wing, cut inside and smashed her shot into the top corner! (3-2, 119’). What an absolutely incredible game.

The game had to be settled on penalties, and it was here that the Germans' extensive experience made the difference (0-3). The Girondines may well be disappointed after coming so close to a historic victory, but it is impossible not to be immensely proud of them at the same time. Such courage, such talent, such dedication to the team, the club, the game. This was one of those spine-tingling nights of European football that fans will be talking about for years to come. For that, and for everything, thank you ladies. Un grand merci.