Chelsea are in a strong position to advance to the Europa League final thanks to a 2-1 win over FC Basel at St Jakob-Park tonight.
An injury-time strike by David Luiz gave the Blues a second away goal as they look to progress to their second European final in two years following last season's Champions League triumph.
Rafael Benitez's side took the lead in the 12th minute when Frank Lampard's corner struck the head of Victor Moses and edged In at the far post, giving the visitors a dream start.
It appeared as though they would go home 1-0 winners until a controversial penalty was converted by Fabian Schar in the 87th minute.
Blues defender Cesar Azpilicueta was harshly judged to have fouled Valentin Stocker in the area with Schar stepping up to beat Petr Cech from the spot.
However, there was another twist as Luiz managed to beat Basel keeper Yann Sommer with a low free-kick deep into stoppage time.
Chelsea will now head back to Stamford Bridge with an air of confidence as they have not lost at home in European competition in 12 matches. On the other hand, Swiss champions Basel have not won away from home in the Europa League in their past eight outings.
2012/13 UEFA Europa League semi-final - first leg
FC Basel (SUI): 1 (Fabian Schar (p) 87') Chelsea (ENG): 2 (Victor Moses 12', David Luiz 90+4')
St Jakob-Park, Basel - 36,000
