MARSEILLE: Olympique Marseille have denied reigning English champions Chelsea the perfect Champions League group stage.

The Blues had won their previous five encounters in Europe but fell into their league habits which have seen them not record a win in their past four domestic outings.

Chelsea were lethargic and lacklustre and were beaten by an 81st minute goal from Brandao who got on the end of a Ramires deflection to net from six yards.

The win edged OM into the Round of 16, pushing them three points clear of Spartak Moscow who won in Slovakia, as Chelsea remained top but unimpressive leading into the second stage.

UEFA Champions League - Group FOlympique Marseille (FRA): 1 (Brandao 81') Chelsea (ENG): 0

Venue: Stade Velodrome, Marseille Crowd: 57,650