Latest from the Europa League!

Well we have two very close games on our hands as Fenerbahce were able to make it 1-0 against Benfica in Turkey while Basel were edged 1-2 by visiting Chelsea. Though it is true that the margins of these scorelines can be easily overturned, Chelsea's 1st leg against Basel was remarkably close. The opportunities were about level though the Blues had a slight advantage. Despite Victor Moses' 12th minute goal, the English side were absolutely wasteful of their chances. While Yann Sommer, Basel's keeper, played a good game, the real reason the margin was not greater was Chelsea's complacency. Having said that, Fabian Schar slotted home in the 87th minute from the penalty spot to equalize in a bit of luck for the Swiss side. At least, that is what it seemed like until the 4th minute of stoppage time of the 2nd half when David Luiz pulled a rabbit out of his hat: he struck a wonderful free-kick that found its way to goal. As for the game in Turkey, Benfica really should have gone for goal as much as they fouled: committing 17 of the latter, they only had 2 real chances. That, however, is a side story to the match. More significant was the fact that Fenerbahce struck the posts not once or twice but thrice - including a penalty opportunity that the Turks really should have put away. Nevertheless, the home side maintained their motivation and found goal in the 72nd minute through Egemen Korkmaz who actually converted off the woodwork! The header from Korkmaz really did illustrate which side deserved the win on the night as Benfica's defense finally fatally faltered after a poor clearance. As far as the second leg goes, Benfica at home will be a different animal than the one we saw away - that is, as long as they keep their heads and play the game that has brought them success thus far. While Cristian and Dirk Kuyt will make sure that Benfica will need to be impenetrable defensively, the Portuguese side should have the talent to at least give Fenerbahce a run for their money. As for the Basel - Chelsea game, Chelsea's strength at home will probably just be too much for the Swiss visitors in the 2nd leg. Enjoy the weekend!