Ann-Katrin Berger recalls her finest moments at Chelsea.
Last weekend, the Blues won 3-0 at Walton Hall Park thanks to several saves from Everton’s goalkeeper.
Emma Hayes and her team are now three points ahead at the top in the Women’s Super League, as they aim to win a 5th consecutive title.
We examine Berger’s significance for West Londoners ahead of the match with Liverpool today at Stamford Bridge.
The odds are against you
Berger has now played in the league three times this season.
She has been with Chelsea for five full seasons and continues to excel despite adversity.
Berger announced last year that she was diagnosed with thyroid carcinoma for the second time after initially recovering from her illness in 2017.
She looked even more formidable in goal against Aston Villa and the Toffees a week ago.
Only Brighton was able to beat her last month in a 4-2 victory for the Blues.
Zecira Muovic has the highest save percentage (88.2%), indicating the strength of Hayes squad.
You’re spoilt for choice
Chelsea has a number of goalkeepers to choose from.
Berger is one of the top keepers in the world, and has won numerous individual titles.
Musovic has been impressive when given the chance. He joined FC Rosengard from Sweden in 2021.
Berger returned to the WSL starting lineup after she conceded only twice during her three appearances in this season.
Nicky Evrard, the Belgium no. 1 who joined Chelsea this summer, was then loaned out to Brighton. Hannah Hampton, a player from England, also came in, having been brought over by Aston Villa.
Berger is the most senior goalkeeper in the department, while Hampton is still a youngster.
The German must maintain her form, given the level of the competition.
New perspective
Berger is going to enjoy her game, regardless of whether Chelsea has another successful season.
Mary Earps of Manchester United was the winner at the FIFA Best Awards in 2022. She had been one of the three finalist for Best Women’s Goalkeeper.
Berger: “If you’re being honest, after my illness, I didn’t think I would ever be among the top three.”
I had to prove myself again, and so was surprised. The feeling is nice and I won’t lie, but in my mind I was already a champion.
It is a great honor to be among the top three. “I’m also a bit proud of me.”
Chelsea supporters will be proud to have a player that continues to excel despite an unbelievably tough period off the field.
Berger, who is always reliable in important matches, could play an even more crucial role against Liverpool.
