Live Commentary: Barcelona 4-2 Real Betis - as it happened

B.

BARCELONA STARTING XI: Pinto; Alves, Piqué, Adriano, Alba; Xavi, Iniesta, Song; Sanchez, Villa, Tello

BARCELONA SUBS: Messi, Thiago, Bartra, Busquets, Montoya, Deulofeu, Oier

BETIS STARTING XI: Adrian; Chica, Mario, Amaya, Martinez; Benat, Igiebor, Perez; Castro, Molina, Pabon

BETIS SUBS: Vadillo, Sevilla, Campbell, Carlos, Fabricio, Varela, Caro

 

0 minKICKOFF: Here we go! Betis get us underway. Can they spring a shock? How will Barcelona react to their Champions League exit? We'll find out over the next 90 minutes!

1 minGOAL! Barcelona 0-1 Betis (Dorlan Pabon)

2 minOh my word what a start for Betis! They take the lead at the Nou Camp after less than two minutes, and it is shocking defending from the home side. One header splits open the entire defence as Song misses it and Alba leaves Pabon to run through on goal,and he makes no mistake to slip it past Pinto. Really poor defending on Barcelona's part.

4 minBarcelona are just looking to get into their usual rhythm after that early setback. Alba makes his way down the left and sends a cross into Villa at the near post, but Mario is across in time to deflect it behind for a corner.

6 minThe one criticism of Barcelona is that their defence often looks shaky, and that can be levelled at them again in these early stages. They need to sign another centre-back to come in when Carles Puyol is injured.

8 minGOAL! Barcelona 1-1 Betis (Alexis Sanchez)

9 minNormal service is resumed for Barcelona. Alba, Xavi and Iniesta knock the ball about down the left before the latter takes it upon himself to attack the defence. He puts a fine cross in with his left foot, and Alexis gambles to get in front of the defender before putting a good header into the corner.

10 minFor all of their defensive frailties, Barcelona are scintillating in attack. Tello is released by a brilliant ball which finds him the wrong side of Chica. His cross is too far in front of Villa, however, and the danger passes.

12 minIt has been a good reaction from Barcelona since going behind so early on. They have dominated possession, as expected, and look likely to create something every time they attack. There are more goals in this one!

14 minThe hosts are getting a lot of joy down the left flank at the moment. Tello and Alba are just too fast for Chica, and he is up against it every time Barcelona come forward.

15 minCHANCE! That is a good chance for Betis to regain the lead. A quick break catches Barca short at the back and a cross is put into the head of Jorge Molina, who nods his effort narrowly wide.

16 minChica again loses out to Tello on the left as the youngster flicks it inside the full-back before giving it to Alexis on the edge of the box. The ball flicks up onto the Chile international's hand resulting in a Betis free kick, but it is another example of Barcelona making ground down that left wing.

18 minAnother patient attack from Barcelona results in Xavi clipping a ball towards Alexis at the back post. The winger has drifted offside, however, and Betis will have a chance to clear their lines with this free kick.

20 minIniesta and Xavi are starting to run this game now, and they have an almost telepathic connection in the centre of the park. Each one looks for the other when they get the ball and, more often than not, they have a pass on.

21 minAlves clips a clever, defence-splitting ball through the middle towards Villa, but the striker appears to pull out of the challenge with the onrushing keeper. I think he would have got to that one if he went for it.

22 minCHANCE! Betis are suddenly left with a three-on-one situation in defence, but somehow Barca don't capitalise. Alexis finds Villa in acres of space on the edge of the box and he has time to take a touch and calmly slot the ball past Adrian. Instead, he tries to curl it first time and the keeper gets down to make a pretty comfortable save.

23 minCHANCE! That is three big chances in quick siccession for Villa, but he has made a mess of all of them! This time it is exhibition football from Barca as Iniesta dinks the ball in to Xavi, who decides to tee Villa up despite being clean through on goal himself. It is lovely football, but Villa blasts it well over the bar when he should have scored. They may have been guilty of doing a bit too much there.

25 minSAVE! Barca are starting to queue up for shots at goal at the moment. The ball sits up nicely for Xavi on the edge of the box and he unleashes a volley, but doesn't quite catch hold of it and it is easy for Adrian to collect.

27 minCHANCE! Despite Barca creating more chances, Betis are getting sights of goal every time they come forward too. Castro has loads of space on the left to put the ball into the middle, and Salva is left unmarked to shoot. His shot takes a deflection on the way through, though, and Pinto beats it away.

28 minVilla gets in behind the opposition defence again, and this time he at least tests the opposition goalkeeper. He takes a touch, which makes his angle tighter, but he still manages to squeeze a good effort towards the near post, but Adrian makes the save.

29 minCHANCE! It is chance after chance at the moment. Tello throws a couple of step-overs before taking it past two men and crossing to Villa, who is presented with yet another golden chance. Adrian is again on hand to make a decent save, but Villa really should have scored there. He should have had at least a hat-trick already!

31 minI must say that Barcelona would be comfortably ahead in this game with Messi on the pitch. Villa is one of the best finishers of his generation, but he just hasn't got his shooting boots on today and he looks to be getting more frustrated with every missed chance.

33 minCLOSE! Barca are attacking at will in this match, but they can't find a goal. Tello again makes headway down the left before pulling it back to the edge of the box where Iniesta is waiting. The Barca midfielder hits it first time, but a deflection takes it just wide.

35 minYet another chance falls for Barcelona, but yet again they don't make the most of it! Alba sends a cross towards the back post and Alexis peels off his man to collect. He chests it down but then slips and can't get up in time to keep it in.

36 minTello decides that he has had enough of the intricacy of Barcelona's play and goes for goal from range. It isn't a bad effort, forcing Adrian to make the save, but the Betis keeper was never really troubled by that one.

38 minHow Barcelona are not ahead in this match I don't know. They have had plenty of chances to take the lead since drawing back level in the 10th minute, with the left flank proving particularly fruitful for the hosts. Tello is enjoying himself out there, and Chica just can't deal with him.

40 minPlay opens up for Alba about 25 yards from goal, but the full-back never looks fully comfortable with it. He still goes for goal, but he is leaning back and the ball flies high and wide. Barca are being forced into more long shots now.

41 minOFF THE BAR! My word, it just isn't happening for Barca! A terrible header from Chica falls straight to Tello, who cuts inside before firing a powerful strike towards goal. It crashes off the underside of the bar and bounces down onto the line and out. The replay suggests that it may well have gone over the line, but it would have been impossible to call in normal time.

42 minGOAL! Barcelona 1-2 Real Betis (Ruben Perez)

43 minWow! What a strike that is! After a barrage of Barcelona attacks throughout this half it looks like Betis will take the lead into the break. The ball is worked back to Ruben Perez, who takes a touch before lashing a thunderbolt past Pinto and into the top corner from 30 yards out. That is a truly special goal from the midfielder, and what a way to get your first for the club.

45 minYELLOW CARD! Adriano becomes the first man in the referee's book for a poor tackle on Igiebor. The Barcelona man raked his studs right down the back of his calf there.

45+1 minHALF TIME: Barcelona 1-2 Real Betis

8.50pmThe referee brings an end to a very strange half of football. Betis made the best possible start by taking the lead inside two minutes, but from then on Barcelona dominated. They found the equaliser through Alexis soon enough, but since then they have not been able to convert any of the plethora of chances they have created. Then, just before the break, Ruben Perez unleashed a magnificent effort from 30 yards out that gave Pinto no chance and sends Betis into the break with an undeserved lead.

8.52pmDavid Villa has been the man most guilty of wastefulness in front of goal. The Spanish striker has squandered at least four really good chances for the hosts, which is very out of character for him. On a couple of occasions, Barca have been guilty of trying to walk the ball into the net, but they have presented Villa with good enough chances to make that possible.

8.54pmThe stage could well be set for a certain Argentinian maestro to enter the match. There is no doubt that he would have had a couple of goals to his name had he started this match, even allowing for the fact that he is not fully fit. If Barca are still not winning by the hour mark, I'd expect Messi to come on.

8.56pmBetis' first goal was really poor from Barcelona defensively. They were asleep from kickoff, and one header from the halfway line beat the entire defence and allowed Pabon clean through on goal to finish. They could do nothing about the second goal, however, as Perez hit a world class strike from range.

8.58pmBarcelona's goal was decent from their points of view. They don't often score headers, but with crosses like Iniesta's Sanchez couldn't really miss. The midfield maestro embarked on a clever run down the left before clipping the ball into the box. Sanchez did well to get in front of the full-back, and made no mistake with his finish.

9pmBarca's main point of attack has come down that left flank today, and Chica is really struggling to deal with Tello. The Barcelona winger has had the better of the Betis full-back for the entire match so far, and Pepe Mel will have to address that problem in the second half if he wants to hold on to the lead.

9.02pmIt was from Chica's poor header that Tello hit the woodwork in the first half. His shot came off the underside of the bar and bounced on the line and out. The linesman was probably right not to flag for a goal as, even after watching a number of replays, I can't decide whether it was over the line or not. There is no way he could have been 100% certain that it was a goal.

9.04pmBETIS SUB: Betis are making a change at half time, bringing on Benat for Jorge Molina. It wasn't the sub we were perhaps expecting, but Benat is the star of the show for Betis.

45 minKICKOFF: We're back underway at the Nou Camp as Barcelona get this match restarted.

47 minAn interesting point here: Madrid play twice before Barcelona's next match, which means that a defeat today could see Barca's lead reduced to just two points by the time they next play. Suddenly the league will look very different and the pressure will be on Barca.

48 minSanchez zips a through ball towards Villa, but the Spanish striker's run is blocked off by a clever bodycheck from Amaya. It just hasn't been Villa's night so far tonight.

50 minAdriano does not look like a natural fit in centre-back. The likes of Mascherano and Song have filled in for Puyol and done a decent job, but it just isn't the same as having a specialist centre-back playing, and Adriano is certainly not one of them.

52 minAdriano is again forced to track back towards his own goal and he sends a heavy pass back towards Pinto, who scurries across his area to reach it in time before passing it to Pique.

53 minSanchez shows brilliant close control to take the ball past his man and into the box, but his cut back towards Xavi on the edge of the box is intercepted. Meanwhile, a certain Lionel Messi looks set to enter the field of play imminently.

54 minYELLOW CARD! Ruben Perez becomes the second player to be booked in his match for a late tackle.

55 minGOAL! Barcelona 2-2 Betis (David Villa)

55 minDavid Villa finally scores! Just as Messi was warming up to come on, Alves makes his way down the right and sends a cross to Villa, who sends a diving header through the legs of Adrian. That wasn't very well defended by Betis, it must be said. It looked like there was miscommunication between the keeper and his defence.

57 minBARCELONA SUB: That is Villa's last action of the match, though. His celebrations are cut short when he sees his number signalled by the fourth official, and on comes the great Lionel Messi.

58 minMario comes right through the back of Alves on the edge of the Betis box, and Barcelona have a free kick in a very promising position here. Messi and Xavi are standing over it...

59 minGOAL! Barcelona 3-2 Betis (Lionel Messi)

60 minI'm running out of superlatives for this man. It doesn't matter if he comes on as a sub or if he starts a game, he always scores. That is the 21st league game in a row that Messi has scored in, what a phenomenal record. He steps up to the free kick and curls it over the wall and perfectly into the top corner with one of his first touches. Just magnificent. He last failed to score in a league game that he played in at the start of November.

62 minSuddenly, just like that, Barcelona are in the lead. Messi can't take all the plaudits, of course, but when he is on the pitch the fans and the team look a lot more comfortable and assured.

64 minThat was Messi's 65th goal of the season for club and country, by the way. He won't match last season's tally, partly because of his current injury, but it is still an unbelievable record.

66 minThis one isn't over yet, however. Betis have shown that they can be very dangerous on the counter attack and Barcelona will be eager to get a fourth to give themselves some breathing space.

66 minTello throws two step-overs before taking the ball past Amaya, who brings him down right on the edge of the box. It is another free kick in a dangerous position, and the usual suspects - Xavi and Messi - are standing over it once more. This one is more suited to Xavi, you'd think, but nothing is beyond Messi it seems.

68 minBETIS SUB: Joel Campbell, currently on loan from Arsenal, comes on for Igiebor, who went down hurt when lining up in the wall. Very strange.

69 minOFF THE BAR! It is Messi who takes it, and he almost produces another spectacular goal. He fires it towards the keeper's side this time, but Adrian can still get nowhere near it as it smashes against the angle. Fantastic effort.

70 minBetis almost find an equaliser, but are denied by some fine defending. The ball is knocked back towards Pabon inside the six yard box, but Adriano is out to snuff his shot with a fine block.

71 minGOAL! Barcelona 4-2 Betis (Lionel Messi)

72 minJust sublime. We've seen the individual brilliance from Messi, but this one is a fine team goal. Messi gives it to Iniesta, who flicks a clever backheel through to Alexis, who is just onside. Messi has continued his run and Alexis squares the ball to the Argentinian, who is never going to miss such an easy tap-in. He has only been on the pitch for 15 minutes, but Messi is now on a hat-trick!

74 minCHANCE! Iniesta chips a superb aerial through ball to Alexis, who is onside as he races on to the ball. He tries to lift the ball over Adrian on the half volley, but the Betis keeper makes a good save to deny Barcelona a fifth.

76 minThings are looking very comfortable for Barcelona right now. It didn't look like it would be like that for much of the match as they struggled to find their shooting boots, but the introduction of Messi has changed everything.

78 minBARCELONA SUB: Alexis Sanchez is given a good reception by the home fans as he makes way for Thiago. The Chile international has had a good game this evening.

80 minBetis looked so full of life in the first half, but their energy has been sapped by the tiki-taka style of Barcelona in this second half. They looked dangerous going forward in the first half and were bouyed by every chance Barca missed, but they haven't had a sniff in the second 45 minutes so far.

81 minThat is a chance by Messi's standards! Alves plays a fine through ball into the Argentinian, who is adjudged to be just onside by the linesman. He is forced a little wide, however, which makes the angle too acute for a shot. Instead, he looks for support in the middle, but his pass to Xavi is cut out.

83 minMessi is looking very sharp and he definitely wants a hat-trick tonight. I wouldn't bet against him getting one either. The way things are going, he should get at least one more chance in this match.

86 minBARCELONA SUB: Alex Song makes way in Barcelona's final change of the day, and he is replaced by Sergio Busquets in the middle of the park.

88 minAlves bombs down the right with a typically industrious run, but when trying to find Messi in the middle he woefully over-hits his cross. His delivery from the wide areas hasn't been great tonight.

89 minPique makes a lung-bursting run forward, but when the ball looks like it could break to him he is already on his way back!

90 minWe will have three minutes of added time at the Nou Camp. Can either side get another goal in this match?

90+2 minCHANCE! Messi comes so close to adding a spectacular third and finishing this match in style. He turns on the gas to take the ball past three Betis defenders, but Adrian stays on his feet as the little magician tried to chip the ball over him, allowing the keeper to punch it away.

90+3 minFULL TIME: Barcelona 4-2 Betis

 

Live Commentary: Sheffield United 1-0 Yeovil Town - as it happened

 SHEFFIELD UNITED: Long, Westlake, Maguire, Hill, Doyle, Porter, McDonald, Kitson, Collins, Robson, Murphy

YEOVIL: Stech, Ayling, Webster, Burn, McAllister, Foley, Edwards, Upson, Dawson, Madden, Hayter

 

2 minWe are slightly late getting underway in Yorkshire, with Yeovil eventually kicking off in a changed bright Yellow and Black strip. The visitors almost immediately concede possession, with United defender Maguire then thumping out of play as he attempts a long diagonal pass.

4 minUnited work a neat opening as Kitson beats the offside trap to break free in the penalty area to meet a pass from Porter. The forward has time to aim a looping cross towards Murphy at the far post, but his attempted cross is overhit and allows Yeovil to regroup and scramble clear.

6 minMaguire is made to work hard as his attempted clearance is chased down by Madden in the far corner. The central defender eventually sweeps a long ball forward at the third time of asking, with Robson keeping the long pass alive to create a counter attack. His curling cross finds Kitson unmarked in the penalty area, but the forward can only head wide under little pressure.

9 minSHOT! Robson picks out a clever pass for Porter to chase in the far corner, with United eventually winning a free kick just outside the penalty area as Ed Upson commits a silly foul 20 yards from goal. Westlake and Robson both want to take, with the Scottish international eventually curling just wide with a brilliant effort that had Stech scrambling towards the far corner.

11 minYeovil are growing in confidence as McAllister sends a forward pass down the flank, but neither Madden or Hayter read the full-back's intentions and a hopeful ball runs out aimlessly for a goal kick.

14 minSheffield go long under pressure from a persistent Yeovil midfield, with Robson again managing to create space on the right wing. Murphy then cuts inside from the left and finds Porter, who contests a high ball and is brought down in a tussle with Burn. Referee Stuart Attwell takes his time to deliberate a fierce penalty appeal but eventually waves away United protests. Yeovil can count themselves lucky to get away with one on that occassion, with Burn clearly hauling Porter to the ground!

17 minYeovil attack at the other end to relieve home pressure as Madden drifts into space out wide. His looping cross picks out Edwards just outside the penalty area, but his scuffed effort from 20 yards drifts through to Long without any danger. Hayter then wins a first corner kick for the visitors, but the referee gives a foul from the delivery as Burn hurls Maguire to the floor.

19 minDawson nearly makes United pay United pay for slack passing in their own as McDonald's short effort back to Long is deflected on its approach to the goalkeeper. Under pressure the keeper adjusts well and hammers clear, much to the relief of a stretched back four.

22 minA determined run down the far side from Edwards earns Yeovil a throw in the final third, but Yeovil are unable to provide service to their front two as United shield a poor effort out for a goal kick. Glovers' defender Burn is then involved again as the centre-back is brought down by Porter as the duo's aerial tussle continues.

24 minPorter shows desire to chase down a lost cause near the corner flag and keep possession for United, with Ayling found wanting for pace in a straight race for the ball. Superb Yeovil pressing then forces the home side to launch long, but Murphy is quick to win a cheap free kick for United in the opposition half.

26 minCHANCE! Robson's free kick is kept alive by Collins as Yeovil fail to clear their lines. A bobbling ball eventually falls to Murphy at the far post, but the winger's powerful strike lacks composure and flies well over the near post from close range.

28 minMcAllister shows experience to stop Robson making contact with a deflected cross at the far post, doing just enough by leaning into his marker at the crucial moment. The United midfielder is winded after taking a heavy fall, but returns to play after a short spell of treatment.

30 minMadden is too eager to met a diagonal pass aimed into space behind the United rearguard and strays just offside. Meanwhile worryingly for the Blades Robson is down once again and seems to be favouring his ribs, which may force caretaker boss Morgan into an early change.

32 minSUBSTITUTION: A huge blow for United as the Scottish international is forced off. 19-year-old midfielder Callum McFadzean is quickly introduced and takes up a central position.

35 minMurphy curs inside to send a dangerous looping cross towards the far post, but Yeovil eventually clear at the second time of asking as Burn beats Porter in the air. Yeovil regroup to aim a long pass towards Hayter, who in turn threads a neat pass forward in search of Hayter. The pacy forward has once again failed to time his run correctly and is stopped from shooting by a late offside flag.

37 minCHANCE! Yeovil create their first chance of the match as Hayter and Dawson combine in the penalty area. Dawson has time to pick his spot but sends a tame low shot well past the far post. United are furious and feel that Foley pushed the ball out for a throw in the build-up to that shot, but once again a contentious decision goes against the home side.

39 minYELLOW CARD! United striker Kitson is handed the game's first caution after a late lunge on Hayter. Intent combined with persistent fouling in the first period probably counted against the veteran there as he is cautioned.

41 minThe match has definitely become more heated in the last few minutes as the referee's assistant awards a foul against Dawson for sliding in to close down Doyle near the halfway line. This game is just threatening to boil over as both sides show their frustration at a scrappy start.

43 minQuick thinking from Yeovil keeper Stech sees the visitors break in numbers as Madden meets a long punt forward. His touch towards Foley is underhit and the midfielder's drive towards goal is deflected by a brilliant late block from Maguire.

45 minYELLOW CARD! Yeovil full-back McAllister is a touch fortunate to receive just a yellow card as he flies in late with studs showing on Westlake. The referee decides a booking is punishment enough just before the break, much to the disappointment of an angry United dugout.

45 min+2Yeovil smash clear a free kick after anticipating a header back across goal from Collins in the penalty area. At the other end Foley fails to pick out Hayter with a curling cross from deep as both sides struggle to deliver with a killer pass in the final third.

8.35pmHALF-TIME Sheffield United 0-0 Yeovil Town

8.37pmA scrappy first period draws to a close, with penalty claims and late tackles dominating a half lacking in genuine quality. United have just about shaded possession but Yeovil's determined approach has frustrated the home side so far tonight.

8.40pmBlades boss Morgan will feel his side should have been awarded a penalty early on for Burn's physical challenge on Porter. Replays suggest that the Yeovil defender was fortunate to escape punishment, with United also denied a penalty soon after as McAllister clashed with Robson in the box.

8.42pmAfter taking an elbow to the ribs Robson was forced to withdraw after just 30 minutes. Losing the experienced Scottish midfielder was a blow for the Blades, with the home side definitely missing a cutting edge in the final third this evening.

8.45pmYeovil boss Johnson will be largely pleased with his side, who have pressed and dictated a fast tempo from the outset. What the visitors must look to do after the break is find Madden and Hayter with quality delivery quickly, with the forward line largely restricted to chasing long passes into the channels in the first period.

8.48pmYou can see from a determined but ultimately fruitless first period why United have gone more than five hours without a goal. Strikers Kitson and Porter have been restricted to meeting crosses from deep so far, with both forwards isolated by a lack of support from midfield. Morgan will want his side to stretch game when play resumes and hit the byline regularly, but Yeovil look strong and resolute in defence.

8.50pmIn a tight first period Yeovil were the only side that managed to register a shot on target, while between the two teams a total of 15 fouls were committed. A moment of inspiration is badly needed at Bramall Lane if either side is desperate to secure an advantage in the tie.

47 minGOAL! Sheffield United 1-0 Yeovil (McFadzean)

49 minJust two minutes into the second period United have made the breakthrough as substitute McFadzean scores his first ever goal for the Blades. The midfielder timed his run to perfection as he met a Porter cross first time. A low, powerful strike took a wicked deflection off Burn and hit the post before ending up behind Stech in the back of net. Advantage United after a frantic start to the second half!

51 minYeovil quickly win a corner kick at the other as Madden chases down a long pass to see his cross turned behind by Maguire. The visitors send numbers forward but McAllister's cross is a real disappointment and fails to beat the first defender at the near post.

53 minThe visitors again attack in numbers as Hayter races to the byline and crosses into the six-yard box. Dawson beats his marker but fails to make contact at the far post as United scramble clear at the second time of asking. The Glovers have reacted well to conceding the opening goal as they press for an instant equaliser.

55 minSHOT! Upson decides to test Long from 30 yards and his low, powerful shot is tipped back into a dangerous area after a slow reaction from the United keeper. Fortunately for Long no Yeovil player follows up and a chance to tap home from close range goes begging for Hayter and Madden.

57 minA poor touch from Foley sees United win back possession and hand their defence a much-needed breather, but Yeovil are quick to regroup as McDonald smashes into the corner. Strong defending from Ayling shield the ball for more than 10 yards and earns the visitors a goal kick.

59 minA late offside flag denies Yeovil the equaliser as Hayter strays behind his marker. The experience forward had time to view the offside trap and despite a clever chipped finish over Long had strayed at least a yard beyond two central defenders. Yeovil desperately need more composure in that position if they are to draw level tonight.

61 minUnited press forward at the other end and strike from distance as Murphy drives into the final third before letting fly. His effort lacks power and eventually drifts through to be caught with relative ease by Stech.

63 minYELLOW CARD! Doyle is undone by quick feet from Edwards and picks up a caution after catching the Yeovil midfielder with a late sliding tackle. Surprisingly given the competitive nature of the match that booking is only the third handed out so far tonight.

65 minA sustained spell of Yeovil pressure sees Hayter capitalise on a slip from Maguire to race clear in the penalty area. The forward has time to pick out strike partner Madden, but his lofted pass is too high and allows Hill to clear with a covering tackle. From the follow up Ayling launches a swirling strike that flies well wide of Long's near post.

67 minMcFadzean lands heavily after an aerial tussle with McAllister and needs medical attention on an eye problem, forcing an unwelcome break in play for the visitors. Yeovil deserve to be at least level but a lack of composure in the final third has undermined their efforts so far this evening.

69 minSAVE! A poor clearance from Stech sees United stride forward when play resumes, with McFadzean leaving McAllister for dead with a superb piece of skill out side. The youngster races into the penalty area and shoots from a tight angle, but his low strike is parried clear by a strong stop from Stech as the Yeovil keeper eventually redeems himself.

71 minWIDE! McFadzean is quickly involved again as his precise pass picks out Foley in space out wide. He cuts inside two Yeovil defenders before launching a powerful strike that ends up whistling past the far post. Encouraging signs for the Blades in the last few minutes as they go in search of a second goal.

73 minUpson, Foley and Edwards link up brilliantly outside the penalty area for Yeovil, before picking out Ayling out wide. His cross finds Madden at the far post, but the forward's header misses the target and is eventually smashed clear by Collins. That was Yeovil's best chance of the night and really should have been taken by their top scorer.

76 minSUBSTITUTIONS: The visitors make their first change in attack, with Ayling replaced by tricky playmaker Angelo Balanta. The former Wycombe loanee has around 15 minutes to make a difference tonight. Meanwhile United decide to swap Kitson for young striker Joe Ironside in attack.

78 minBalanta is quickly caught in possession deep by Doyle, but the midfielder's brilliant interception is let down by a wayward strike towards goal from 20 yards. Yeovil are just struggling a touch to keep pace after setting a high tempo for much of the night.

81 minFoley concedes a free kick for holding just wide of the penalty area, with Morgan furious that the assistant failed to initially award the foul despite standing in close proximity. After chesting down inside the box Webster eventually clears and launches a quick Yeovil counter. The visitors want a penalty as Ayling's cross connects with the arm of McFadzean, but the referee waves away fierce Yeovil protests.

83 minFrom the resulting corner kick Webster rises highest to meet a curling corner kick, but his effort is too central and caught cleanly by Long. At the other end Porter shows strength to retain possession and pick out McDonald, but after working a clever cross Westlake's delivery is poor and gets claimed under no pressure by Stech.

85 minMadden chases down a long diagonal ball and crosses for Balanta, who keeps the attack alive as he chests down for Edwards. Dawson eventually crosses towards the far post, but his effort carries too much power and misses the late run of Madden into the penalty area. Time is running out for Yeovil to restore parity as we head towards the final five minutes.

88 minStech concedes a silly corner kick as he carries a speculative long clearance from Collins over the line, with the effort definitely falling wide of the target. United nearly profit from the corner as Ironside beats the offside trap, but the young forward is at full stretch and fails to connect with a long pass into the danger zone.

90 minYeovil are once again found wanting with the final pass as an ambitious effort form Upson finds Foley offside. The visitors against lose possession quickly as Balanta slips in the final third. More positive work from Foley and Madden sees a third penalty appeal for handball, but Maguire is not peanlised after the ball ricochets off his hand after initially hitting his thigh.

90 min+2SAVE! Westlake puts the home side under pressure as he concedes a cheap foul near the halfway line. From the high cross Webster forces Long into a quick reaction save as he flicks a shot towards goal on the turn. That was a fine stop from the young goalkeeper to maintain his side's narrow advantage.

90 min+4SUBSTITUTION: United make a change in the first of four added minutes, with Whitehouse brought on to replace Chris Porter, who has worked tirelessly in attack on his return to the starting XI. When play resumes Yeovil launch forward but Burn's long pass has too much power to find a chasing Balanta.

90 min+5Madden looks to be clear in the dying seconds for Yeovil, but a heavy touch from the forward allows Maguire to recover and clear with a crucial block tackle in the penalty area. United attack at the other end through Murphy, who cuts inside to send a curling cross into an empty penalty area.

9.42pmFULL-TIME Sheffield United 1-0 Yeovil Town

Live Commentary: Celta Vigo 1-1 Athletic Bilbao - as it happened

 TEAMS:

CELTA: Varas; Bellvis, Tunez, Johny, Oubina; Fernandez, Vila, Lopez, Madinda; Krohn-Dehli, Aspas

BILBAO: Iraizoz; Iraola, San Jose, Aurtenetxe, Ekiza; Gurpegi, Iturraspe, Susaeta, Muniain; De Marcos, Aduriz

 

0 minJust a reminder that three points for Celta would move them out of the drop zone and indeed drag Bilbao into a relegation battle. Unlike other leagues, there are no teams falling away at the bottom of the table. It promises to be a pulsating final few weeks of the season. Right, the home side get us underway on this mild evening in Vigo.

2 minThe supporters have turned up in their numbers this evening that is for certain. Not a full house inside the stadium, but not far from it. Early pressure from the home side as Lopez whips a dangerous cross into the Bilbao box, but San Jose heads clear. Another cross is delivered moments later, but Iraizoz is on hand to collect.

4 minThis really is an important match for the home side. As mentioned, three points would move them out of the relegation zone for the first time in three months, what a bonus. It's bright football from Bilbao this time as Muniain combines with Aduriz before attempting to move behind the Celta defence, but Tunez is across to clear.

6 minNot too much to report in terms of chances in the opening six minutes, although Bilbao have just started to settle with possession. Aduriz attempts to force the issue after an extended period of passing, but his effort is blocked by Bellvis. Quite bitty period truth be told with the referee forced to deal with a number of poor challenges.

8 minBilbao want a penalty as Aduriz collects possession outside the box before driving towards goal, but Bellvis made contact with the ball rather than the man. It must be said that the pitch is win wonderful condition this evening. There is no question that the away side have used the surface to their advantage thus far with quick, incisive passing outside the box.

10 minThere really is a wonderful atmosphere inside the stadium at the moment with the home supporters making their voices known. Meanwhile, Bilbao have brought a healthy support with them this evening. Not too much for the home crowd to get excited about, however, with their opponents the team forcing the issue. However, still no real chances for either side with 10 minutes on the clock.

12 minIt's good work from Krohn-Dehli as the Dane collects possession in the Bilbao half before sliding a pass towards Aspas, but the Spaniard had just moved a yard too soon. Bilbao have a half-chance down the other end moments later as De Marcos strikes an effort from close range, but Bellvis blocks for a corner.

14 minThe chances continue to fall for the away side as Muniain dances past two defenders before finding De Marcos on the edge of the box, but the Spaniard can only thump his effort over the crossbar. The home side really need to be careful here as the pressure continues to build. Celta just have not had a sniff in the opening 14 minutes of this La Liga encounter in Vigo.

16 minCROSSBAR! Oh my word how on earth are Bilbao not ahead? Another wonderful opportunity for the away side as San Jose meets a corner from De Marcos, but his header thumps against the crossbar. Good grief Celta are under some serious pressure here. They really need to ride out this spell.

18 minSlightly bitty period of the match in the last couple of moments with the referee forced to deal with a number of late challenges. However, it has done nothing to stop the flow of Bilbao pressure. In truth, the away side look on a different level at the moment. Aspas does attempt to force the issue down the other end, but his threaded pass is collected by Iraizoz with relative ease.

21 minIt would be safe to say that the home supporters are not too pleased with what they have seen thus far. It does appear that Celta have been sent out to it back and attempt to force it on the counter. However, they have simply not had a period of possession in the opening 21 minutes. Aspas attempts to move past San Jose moments later, but the Spaniard makes a fine challenge.

23 minReally lively affair with 23 minutes on the clock with both sets of players starting to throw their weight around with a series of challenges. The referee has done well to let the play flow in the past few minutes. Not too much in terms of chances for either side in the last few moments, but the home side are much improved.

25 minCelta want a penalty as Aspas hits the deck under contact from Gurpegi, but the referee is not interested. In truth, it would have been very harsh. Aspas is involved in a positive manner moments later as he combines with Oubina before driving into the box, but Ekiza is across to make the challenge. Little over 20 minutes of the first period remaining.

27 minIt's good work from Fernandez this time as the Argentine collects possession in the Bilbao half before beating two players and delivering a cross towards Aspas, but Iraizoz is on hand to claim. The Bilbao stopper attempts to find De Marcos on the counter, but Bellvis was always favourite in the challenge. Very interesting tactical battle between these two struggling sides this evening.

29 minHalf-chance for Aspas this time as the Spaniard collects a pass from Vila before driving into the box, but his effort is straight at the goalkeeper. That is the player that Celta would have wanted in that position, but it was a tame effort. Bilbao attempt to respond down the other end with a strike from Muniain, but it was always moving wide of the post.

32 minOpportunity for Celta to test Iraizoz from distance as Krohn-Dehli strikes a free kick from outside the box, but the Bilbao goalkeeper makes a fine save. The resulting corner also causes problems in the Bilbao area, but Iraizoz manages to win the free kick in a challenge with Alex Lopez. Little under 15 minutes of the first period remaining, with the score still goalless.

34 minBilbao have just lost their way since the early stages with their passing no longer reaching the desired destination. Again Krohn-Dehli has an effort from outside the box moments later, but Iraizoz makes the save. The crowd have responded to this spell of pressure from Celta, but they really need to find a goal. The opening 34 minutes of this match has just flown past.

36 minSlightly sloppy period of the match in the last few moments with both sides guilty of losing possession in the opposing half. Muniain attempts to fashion an opportunity for the away side as he combines with De Marcos, but the impressive Bellvis is once more across to clear. Little under 10 minutes of the first period remaining.

38 minIt's really good work from Aspas once more as the Celta forward bursts past two defenders before attempting to move into the Bilbao box, but San Jose just manages to make a challenge at the vital moment. Wonderful pace from Aspas, who has looked the most likely for Celta.

40 minCROSSBAR! Celta come within inches of taking the lead as Lopez loops a header to the far post, but it hits the top of the crossbar. It falls kindly for Tunez moments later, but Iraola is on hand to make the block. This could be 2-2, but neither side has been able to find the back of the net thus far. Wonderful entertainment in Vigo.

43 minAnother half-chance for Aspas as the Celta forward turns on the edge of the box before striking an effort towards the bottom corner, but Iraizoz is across to make the save. Bilbao have possession down the other end moments later, but a deep cross from Susaeta is cleared by Tunez before Aduriz drifts into an offside position.

43 minGOAL! Celta 0-1 Bilbao (De Marcos)

44 minBilbao take the lead! It is certainly against the run of play, but the away supporters do not mind. It's bright work from Susaeta who finds the run of De Marcos, the Spaniard does not break stride before clipping his effort into the back of the net.

45 minTwo half-chances for the home side in quick succession as Krohn-Dehli's sliced effort falls to Fernandez, but his strike smashes into the side netting. Meanwhile, the fourth official indicates that we will play an additional one minute at the end of the first period.

45 min+1HALF-TIME: Celta 0-1 Bilbao

8.48pmSo there we have it. The referee brings the first period to an end with Bilbao leading 1-0 courtesy of a goal from De Marcos one minute before the break. The away side certainly started the better, but Celta have grown into the half. As it stands, the home side will remain in the relegation zone. But there is still a lot of football to be played.

8.53pmSTATISTICS: The away side have had more of the possession with 60%, but they have had just four attempts to Celta's eight. Bilbao could have been a couple of goals ahead in the opening 10 minutes, but there is no question that the goal came against the run of play. Celta have work to do in the second period that is for certain.

8.58pmBENCH WATCH: Celta have a host of attacking options on the bench in the shape of Mario Bermejo, Orellana and Enrique De Lucas. I suspect that we will see at least two of those at some point this evening. Bilbao, meanwhile, also have a forward options on the bench in the shape of Llorente, Toquero and Ibai Gomez. There are certainly goals in that list of players.

46 minHere we go then. Both sets of players join us on the pitch for the second period. No changes for either side at the interval, which is not too surprising at this stage of events. Just a reminder that as it stands Celta would remain in the bottom three, while Bilbao would take a big step towards safety. Right, the away side get the half underway.

48 minYou just get the feeling that the next goal could ultimately decide the final result this evening. If Celta score, then it is very much game on, but it would be difficult to see the home side coming back from 2-0. Bright start from Aspas as he combines with Vila before striking towards goal, but it was always moving wide of the post.

50 minCHANCE! Early opportunity for the home side as Fernandez strikes a powerful effort from outside the box, but once more Iraizoz gets down well to make the save. The pressure continues as Aspas strikes from close range, but it is deflected wide of the post. Really bright opening from the home side.

52 minAgain it's really bright work from Aspas as the Spaniard dances past two defenders outside the Bilbao box, but San Jose comes across before fouling the striker. The resulting free kick is taken by Aspas, but his effort hits the wall before falling into the arms of the Bilbao stopper. Really bright opening seven minutes to the second period.

54 minCHANCE! Hardly time to take a breath here as Aduriz meets a cross from De Marcos, but his header is straight at the goalkeeper. What an opportunity to move into a two-goal lead. It really is end-to-end football with both teams committing numbers to each attack. Somehow, it remains 1-0 to Bilbao as Aspas heads just wide moments later.

56 minBilbao come close once more as Muniain drives down the left before delivering a low cross into the box, but Tunez is across to make the challenge. Moments later Aspas has a strike from a wide area, but it was always moving wide of the post. Little under 35 minutes of football to play here. I would be astounded if we did not see another goal, or two.

58 minNot too much to report in terms of chances in the last couple of moments, but the tempo has certainly not slowed. Celta just need to show a bit more quality in the final third as they continue to pump high balls into the box. Still no changes for either side, but I suspect that will change in the next 10 minutes or so.

61 minIt's a really poor challenge from Iraola as the Bilbao stopper fells Bellvis outside the box. The resulting free kick is whipped into the box by Krohn-Dehli, but it was always moving over the crossbar. Meanwhile, Bilbao do indeed make a change as Iturraspe is replaced by Ibai Gomez.

63 minAspas continues to force the issue for the home side as he combines with Madinda before driving into the box, but Iraola is across to make a fine challenge. Bilbao have possession down the other end moments later, but Vila fells De Marcos outside the box. The resulting free kick is taken by Susaeta, but Varas is on hand to collect.

65 minFirst change of the match for the home side as Orellana replaces Alex Lopez. Aspas now has company in the final third. As it stands, Celta would remain in the bottom three, while Bilbao would all but secure safety. However, you just get the feeling that we will have more twists and turns with little over 25 minutes of football remaining.

67 minBilbao need to be really careful here as they continue to commit fouls in and around their own penalty area. Orellana takes the free kick, but he fires it straight out of play. That is really poor from the substitute.

67 minCROSSBAR! Bilbao come close to adding their second as Ibai Gomez collects a pass from Aduriz before thumping an effort from outside the box, but it smashes against the crossbar. That would have been game, set and match.

70 minMISS! Oh my good grief what has just happened? This is one of the most incredible misses you will ever see. Muniain puts it on a plate for Aduriz inside the box, but he fires wide in front of an open goal. Will Bilbao be made to regret that missed chance? Bielsa cannot quite believe it.

72 minCelta make their second change of the match as Bermejo replaces Krohn-Dehli, who has not quite been on form this evening. The home side have just struggled for possession in the last couple of moments with Bilbao seemingly moving up a gear. Little under 20 minutes of football remaining in Vigo, with just the one goal separating the two sides.

74 minHalf-chance for Ibai this time as the Bilbao midfielder collects a pass from Susaeta before striking an effort from close range, but it was always moving high and wide of the crossbar. They could have put this game to bed in the last five minutes or so. Celta have gone awfully quiet, meanwhile, with their passing going astray.

76 minGood pressure from the home side in the last couple of moments as they force two corners in quick succession. However, the first is headed clear by San Jose before Iraizoz comes through traffic to claim the danger. You just get the feeling that there is another goal in this match. Little under 15 minutes of football remaining in Vigo.

78 minBoth sides make changes with Aduriz being replaced by Llorente for Bilbao, while Celta introduce Toni in place of Fernandez. Not too much to report in terms of chances in the last few moments with neither side taking too much care in possession of the ball. Little over 10 minutes of football remaining. Still Bilbao lead courtesy of that De Marcos strike in the first half.

81 minCHANCE! Wonderful opportunity for the home side as Bermejo rises in the box, but his header just moves wide of the post. The corner count continues to rise as Celta pen Bilbao into their own box, but they just cannot find the back of the net. Can Bilbao hold on here?

83 minNasty head injury for Gurpegi as the Bilbao defender clashes with Bermejo, but he does return following a period of treatment. The away side must be praised for their defensive performance this evening. Celta continue to hit the long ball into the box, but it just will not stick. One-way traffic with 83 minutes on the clock.

84 minGOAL! Celta 1-1 Bilbao (Aspas)

85 minCelta level! Wonderful goal from Aspas as the Spaniard collects a pass from Orellana before thumping an effort into the bottom corner. What an outstanding finish from the home side's top scorer.

87 minNot too much football being played by either side at the moment with the ball spending more time in the air than on the deck. Celta just need their supporters to raise the atmosphere as we approach the final three minutes, there is a winner in this.

89 minBilbao attempt to force the issue as Muniain drives down the right before delivering a cross towards Llorente, but the Spaniard just could not make contact. This is not a match for the faint hearted at the moment as the challenges continue to fly in. Little over one minute of normal time remaining.

90 min+1Not too much to report in the last couple of moments with both sides seemingly accepting a share of the spoils. If any team looks like winning it, then it is Bilbao. Meanwhile, the fourth official indicates that we will play an additional three minutes at the end of the match.

90 min+3Bilbao force the issue with two corners in quick succession, but the first is cleared by Bellvis before Llorente heads just wide of the post. Celta attempt to threaten on the counter, but Aspas just could not escape Gurpegi. Little under one minute of stoppage time remaining.

90 min+3FULL-TIME: Celta 1-1 Bilbao

 

 

Live Commentary: Chelsea 3-1 Basel (5-2 agg.) - as it happened

 

 CHELSEA: Cech, Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Bertrand, Lampard, Luiz, Ramires, Hazard, Moses, Torres

BASEL: Sommer, Voser, Schar, Sauro, Steinhofer, Die, Stocker, F Frei, Salah, Elneny, Streller

 

 

2 minAfter a slight delay Basel get the match underway and immediately launch a long diagonal towards the far corner. Chelsea deal with the quick pass easily and decide to keep possession deep in the early going.

4 minSHOT! Very early on Basel get a sight at goal through Streller as Chelsea switch off in central defence. The forward has time to meet a looping forward pass but can only send a half volley well wide from just inside the penalty area. A golden opportunity for the visitors to score a precious away goal.

6 minAzpilcueta shows composure in defence to intercept a pass meant for the late run of Stocker, with Basel signalling an intent to attack right from the outset. At the other end trickery in the final third from Ramires finds Moses out wide, with the forward eventually winning a cheap free kick near the corner flag thanks to a cheap foul from Serey Die.

8 minLess than a minute later Serey Die races into a high challenge on Bertrand and forces the referee to award another free kick just beyond the halfway line. The Swedish official decides a stern word will suffice at this stage but the Ivory Coast midfielder is lucky to escape a caution even at this early stage.

10 minOFF THE POST! Frank Lampard has just come within inches of drawing level with Tambling's goal record. The midfielder ghosted in-behind to meet a clever flick from Torres and decided to take his shot early after beating the offside trap. His half-volley had Sommer beat but clipped the far post and bounced out, with Moses unable to turn home the rebound from a tight angle!

12 minBasel are quick to maintain their positive start and push both full-backs forward at the other end. Steinhofer had made a lively start down the right flank but is just unable to beat Moses and deliver in the final third.

14 minSCORE UPDATE! News of a quick goal in tonight's other semi-final, with Benfica leveling the tie thanks to an early strike from Gaitan. The Portuguese giants are now level at 1-1 with Fenerbahce with more than 75 minutes left to play!

16 minBack at the Bridge a clever run into the channel from Torres creates space in the final third, but the Spaniard is unable to pick out an advanced run from Hazard into the box as his pass is intercepted. Basel are quick to launch forward on the counter, but Stocker is held up near the corner flag, giving Chelsea the chance to regroup in numbers as Cech claims an aimless cross.

19 minSAVE! Chelsea enjoy a sustained spell of possession as Lampard, Torres and Hazard all enjoy touches in the opposition half. Another strong run out wide from Torres sees the forward share a neat exchange with Hazard before aiming a weak low shot towards the bottom corner. His effort is well placed and requires Sommer to tip round the post at full stretch for a corner kick.

21 minFrom the following corner Luiz is unable to make contact with a curling cross despite being unmarked at the far post in a lucky escape from Basel. Strong running without possession from Ramires soon sees the Blues regain control, with the home side now looking assured after a slightly nervous start.

23 minMoses wins a corner kick after a positive run down the left flank. Lampard's delivery beats a number of players and bounces inside the six-yard box before eventually being cleared by Stocker. Basel definitely look vulnerable from set pieces, which is hardly a closely-guarded secret after they conceded twice from similar situations in the first leg.

25 minChelsea keep the pressure on as Lampard sends a looping cross towards the far post, but an attempt from Moses to chest into the path of Torres sends the ball out harmlessly for a goal kick. Basel are now struggling to clear their lines and keep possession with any real conviction in the opposition half.

27 minCahill puts in a strong challenge on Stocker, winning the ball cleanly before catching the winger with an over-zealous follow through. After a short break for the Basel winger to receive medical attention he seems alright to continue.

29 minSHOT! A quite wonderful effort on the volley from Streller sails just wide of the far corner, with a strike reminiscent of Marco van Basten from a tight angle. The forward watched a cross from Steinhofer all the way and connected perfectly, with his powerful drive flying just past Cech's far post.

31 minBasel use that effort as something to build on and win a corner kick as Cahill is forced to turn behind under pressure from Salah. Stocker's following cross is a huge disappointment and falls comfortably for Cech to claim under little pressure in the six-yard box.

33 minSCORE UPDATE! Another goal before the break in tonight's other tie between Fenerbahce and Benfica. Dirk Kuyt to bring the visitors level on the night and 2-1 up on aggregate with a crucial away goal.

35 minCHANCE! Back in West London the Blues have just spurned a golden opportunity to take the lead. A strong run from Hazard into the penalty area left three Basel players in his wake before a pass into the penalty area searched for Ramires. The Brazilian was at full stretch to meet the cutback but his connection was soft and allowed Sommer to save from close range.

37 minClever close control from El Nenny and Salah helps Basel win a corner kick, but Cech is out quickly to punch the cross clear at his near post. At the other end Azpilicueta decides to try his luck from range, but sends a tame low effort well wide of Sommer's far post from 30 yards.

39 minA rare wasteful cross from Hazard fails to pick out any of three Chelsea players who had made forward runs, with Lampard standing unmarked inside the penalty area. Basel continue their positive approach when they regain possession, but Bertrand just does enough to see off Steinhofer in an advanced position out wide.

41 minSAVE! Basel have just had without question their best opening of the night. Salah's run into the final third forced a strong save from the onrushing Cech, with Stocker's shot on the rebound blocked clear by Bertrand. The visitors want handball against Bertrand, but the referee waves away fierce protests from the Basel bench.

43 minSCORE UPDATE! There has been another goal at the Stadium of Light, with Oscar Cardozo bringing Benfica level at 2-2 on aggregate against Fenerbahce. The home side need another goal to progress after a frantic opening to the second leg in Lisbon!

45 minChelsea take the sting out of Basel's recent revival by maintaining possession for prolonged spell in the final third. Lampard eventually attempts a tricky forward pass in search of Ramires, which is intercepted by Voser just inside the penalty area.

45 min+1GOAL! Chelsea 0-1 Basel (Salah)

45 min+2Right on the stroke of half-time Salah has beaten a static Chelsea offside trap to turn home from close range after being picked out by a precise pass from Stocker. Yakin's side have been rewarded for a positive approach and are now within a single goal of progressing to their first ever European final.

8.55pmHALF-TIME Chelsea 0-1 Basel (2-2 on aggregate)

8.57pmAfter a fairly routine first 45 minutes for Chelsea conceding in stoppage time has thrown the tie wide open. Basel have shown attacking intent from the outset, with Salah, Stocker and Streller all showing glimpses of quality on the counter.

8.59pmChelsea look a potent threat going forward but have too often failed to show composure with a final pass. Lampard struck the post early on for the Blues, but Benitez must be concerned with his side's slack marking at times throughout the first period.

9.01pmAt present this scoreline is just about good enough for Chelsea to reach the final, but the tie is now finely poised and another Basel goal puts the Blues at a huge disadvantage. There are definitely more goals there to be had at both ends, with Basel's commitment to chasing the match leaving them open on the counter.

9.03pmChelsea have a number of experienced players at their disposal on the bench and may well be forced to use that advantage after the break. Mata and Oscar could help the Blues keep possession in midfield, while Terry could be introduced to keep things tight in the closing stages.

9.05pmBasel should come out after the interval full of confidence after a spirited first-half display. The Swiss side are causing problems with their ability to switch a clever three-man attack and definitely look capable of creating more chances to score. Stocker in particular is a player with fantastic close control and his runs inside the channels have kept the Chelsea rearguard busy in both legs.

9.07pmSEMI-FINAL UPDATE! A reminder that in tonight's other semi-final Fenerbahce trail 2-1 on the night against Benfica after a frenetic first period. The Turkish giants will still progress as things stand on the away goals rule, but there is a long way to go in Lisbon.

47 minChelsea get the second half underway and launch a long diagonal down the touchline, with Luiz's pass far too heavy for the chasing Azpilicueta to prevent a goal kick for the visitors. The Blues quickly regain possession and cross through Hazard, but his attempted pass inside is intercepted by Stocker.

49 minBertrand concedes a free kick just beyond the halfway line, giving Basel the chance to send numbers forward. A clever exchange out wide between Voser and Stocker sets up Sergey Die for a strike just outside the penalty area, but his scuffed effort falls well wide of the top corner.

51 minGOAL! Chelsea 1-1 Basel (Torres)

53 minA stunning solo run from Hazard has helped Chelsea create a crucial goal on the counter. The Belgian beat three players before eventually being stopped just inside the penalty area, but Lampard pounced quickly to strike low towards the bottom corner. Sommer did just enough to parry wide, but Torres was on hand to follow up and tap home his 20th of the season from close range.

55 minGOAL! Chelsea 2-1 Basel (Moses)

57 minThe persistence of Moses has put Chelsea well and truly on course to reach Amsterdam. The forward had his first shot from close range charged down, but reacted quickest to meet the loose ball and find the far corner from close range. That is the Nigerian's fourth goal in six matches and two in as many minutes now have the Blues in complete control of the tie.

59 minYELLOW CARD! Azpilicueta has just picked up the game's first caution for a clumsy late tackle on Sauro. His late lunge caught the central defender with studs to shin and is worthy of a booking.

61 minGOAL! Chelsea 3-1 Basel (Luiz)

63 minA quite magnificent strike from distance by Luiz has effectively put this tie beyond doubt. With the home crowd urging Lampard to shoot the midfielder instead elects to pick out Luiz around 25 yards from goal. The Brazilian looks up and sends an unstoppable curling drive into the top corner, with a strike full of swerve and venom. The Blues have survived a real scare and are now comfortable with a three-goal advantage on aggregate.

65 minSUBSTITUTION: Basel decide to make a desperate double change, with David Degen and Zoua coming on for Streller and Stocker. Yakin has probably just taken off his two best players and the Swiss champions now look unlikely to produce a miracle comeback.

67 minOFF THE POST! Fabian Frei must have heard me and decides to unleash a thunderous drive towards the top corner. His strike swerves considerably and ends up crashing off the far post, with Cech reduced to the role of spectator in the Chelsea goal. That is desperately unlucky for Basel, who continue to flood forward but now look well beaten.

69 minSUBSTITUTION: With Ramires one booking away from missing the final Benitez decides to protect his Brazilian midfielder, sending on Oscar with 20 minutes left to play.

71 minYELLOW CARD! Schar loses his cool and hauls Torres to the ground around 25 yards from goal, picking up a booking and a European suspension in the process. Lampard is hurried forward to the the resulting free kick, but with headline writers waiting expectantly the midfielder blasts a wayward effort high and wide.

73 minYELLOW CARD! Steinhofer follows Schar into the referee's notebook after cynically bringing down Hazard on the halfway line. The Belgian had plenty of space to accelerate towards and the full-back decides to take no chances, receiving a caution in the process.

75 minSCORE UPDATE! News of another goal in Lisbon and a second strike from Oscar Cardozo has put Benfica 3-2 ahead on aggregate against Fenerbahce. As it stands the Portuguese giants will qualify for next month's final and meet Chelsea in Amsterdam.

76 minHazard shows superb vision to spot Sommer off his line and attempt a chip into the top corner from at least 20 yards. The Belgian's effort is precise but lacks power and allows the Basel keeper to scramble backwards and avoid embarrassment with a comfortable catch.

78 minSUBSTITUTIONS: Chelsea make a second change to rest Hazard, despite Luiz and Bertrand being a yellow card away from missing the final. Mata in on to replace his midfield colleague behind Torres, with Basel also swapping Frei for Chilean playmaker Marcelo Diaz in their final change.

80 minDie continues to fight for Basel in midfield, both with and without the ball. The Ivorian bombs forward and has time to shoot from 20 yards, but can only test Cech with a low strike that lacks power and is saved easily. Diaz is next to try his luck from range with a deflected drive, which Cech is forced to turn wide for a corner kick after adjusting late.

82 minAfter a delay caused by stewards moving across the corner flag Diaz's corner kick is flicked on by a towering leap at the near post from Schar. Unfortunately for Basel no visiting player anticipates the flick and Chelsea are able to clear with relative ease at the far post.

85 minSUBSTITUTION: Chelsea decide to protect Luiz in the closing stages, with the Brazilian a booking away from missing the final through suspension. Nathan Ake is brought on to replace Luiz late on in his appearance in the Europa League knockout stages.

87 minSAVE! Good hustle from Torres robs possession in the penalty area and finds Mata in space just inside the box. The Spaniard's powerful strike is just central enough for Sommer to make an acrobatic stop.

89 minAt the other end Zoua attempts a curling strike from just outside the penalty area, but under pressure his effort never looks like turning inside the far post and drifts well wide.

90 min+1YELLOW CARD! Just shy of stoppage time Basel midfielder Die finally receives a long overdue caution after bringing down Oscar with a physical challenge without coming close to winning the ball. Chelsea break quickly as a result, but Torres can only send a tame central effort straight to a relieved Sommer.

90 min+3Oscar has time and space to pick out two unmarked players at the far post but his cross has far too power and drifts beyond Torres for a goal kick. The Brazilian quickly gets another chance to play in Torres and gets it right with a quick pass, but once again the Spanish striker's soft effort is tipped wide by Sommer at his near post.

9.56pmFULL-TIME Chelsea 3-1 Basel (5-2 on aggregate)

Live Commentary: Barcelona 0-3 Bayern Munich (0-7) - as it happened

 

 TEAMS:

BARCELONA: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Bartra, Adriano; Song, Xavi, Iniesta; Pedro, Fabregas, Villa

BAYERN: Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Van Buyten, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Martinez; Robben, Muller, Ribery; Mandzukic

 

 

0 minJust a reminder of the main team news this evening. No Messi, Alba or Busquets for the home side, with Adriano, Song and Fabregas all coming into the team. Bayern, meanwhile, prefer Van Buyten and Mandzukic to Gomez and Dante. Right, the away side get the action underway on this famous night of European football.

2 minJust a reminder that Barcelona need to score at least four times this evening to have a chance of securing a spot in the final. It has been a fabulous day in Barcelona, perfect for a game of football. Ribery attempts to find Muller with a early threaded pass, but the German was offside. Bright start from the German outfit who have not allowed the home side to settle.

4 minIt's good work from the away side once more as Mandzukic collects a pass from Robben before advancing down the right, but he loses control at the vital moment, with Alves across to clear. No sign of the normal Barcelona that immediately take charge of each match they play. It is the Germans that have started to pass and probe in the opposing half.

6 minHalf-chance for the away side as Muller collects possession in the Barcelona half before feeding Mandzukic, but Alves is across to clear. The Brazilian appears to pass it back to his goalkeeper, but Valdes takes the decision to collect. Already suggestions that Bayern will attempt to put this game to bed with a goal of their own. Six minutes on the clock at the Camp Nou.

8 minSafe to say that a certain Argentine does not look too happy on the bench at the moment. If he isn't playing this evening, then he has to be really struggling. Just a few challenges for the referee to deal with in the last couple of moments with Lahm and Song both throwing their weight around. Still no real chances, but Barcelona are starting to see more of the ball with Xavi and Iniesta.

10 minIt's good work from Fabregas as the Spaniard combines with Song before feeding Villa, but Boateng is across to clear at the vital moment. Bayern are on the attack moments later as Lahm drives into the box, but his effort is straight at Adriano, who is across to clear. A free kick is fired into the box by Schweinsteiger moments later, but Muller heads wide.

12 minHalf-chance for Barcelona this time as Bartra meets a cross from Xavi, but his header was always moving high and wide of the crossbar. Fabulous atmosphere inside the stadium this evening, but the supporters really want that early goal. The home side almost look overawed by this wonderful Bayern team at the moment. They are just so composed on the ball. Still no real chances for either side with 12 minutes on the clock.

14 minCHANCE! Wonderful opportunity for the away side as Robben beats the offside trap before driving into the box, but his low effort is straight at the goalkeeper. A mistake from Boateng allows Barcelona a corner down the other end, but Xavi's delivery is cleared by Boateng. It is just starting to open up with both sides on the attack.

16 minThere is so much space for Bayern at the moment as Robben once more collects possession before finding Muller in the box, but Song is across to perform his defensive work. Fabregas forces the issue down the other end as he finds Pedro before sliding in Villa, but Neuer manages to gather. Suddenly both sides are attempting to force the issue as Alves's low cross is cleared by Lahm.

18 minAgain it's wonderful work from Ribery as the Frenchman drives down the left, but Alves fells the winger just outside the box. Once more the free kick is taken on by Schweinsteiger, but the flag is up as Robben attempts to find an effort on goal. Meanwhile, it is the Bayern fans that can be heard as we enter the 18th minute of proceedings at the Camp Nou.

20 minNot too much to report in terms of chances in the last few moments, although Barcelona are enjoying more of the possession. There is always a threat on the break, however, with Bayern not afraid to collect players forward. Lahm wants a penalty as he moves into the box, but the referee says that Pique won the ball. Matter of inches there. There is just something missing from this Barcelona side, well aside from Messi of course.

23 minFabregas has possession once more as he collects a pass from Song, but Boateng is across to make the clearance. Bayern are once more on the attack moments later as Robben feeds Ribery, but Pique is on hand to make the challenge. Valdes is called into action moments later to deal with a Martinez pass, but the Spanish goalkeeper is on hand to make the clearance.

25 minNot too much to report in the last couple of moments with both sides guilty of losing possession in the opposing half. In truth, Barcelona have not once looked like scoring in the opening 25 minutes, they need to score at least four times to have a chance of making the final. Even then, it is difficult to see Bayern not scoring as they continue to attack on the counter.

27 minHalf-chance for the home side as Pedro collects possession outside the box before striking an effort towards goal, but Neuer is on hand to make the save. Pedro has another go from the resulting corner, but Martinez is on hand to make the block. This period of pressure has just brought Heynckes to his feet.

29 minAgain Valdes is called into action as he is forced to deal with a back-pass from Pique, but the Spaniard does manage to clear under pressure from Muller. Bayern are certainly getting closer on the counter attack. Busquets sometimes does not get the credit he deserves, but Barcelona miss him when he isn't playing. Half-chance for Xavi moments later, but he can only volley over the bar.

30 minAgain Robben is involved down the right as he cuts inside the box before driving past Pique, but the Spaniard does manage to get a toe on the ball at the vital moment. Barcelona attempt to break down the other end with Xavi, but once more his pass goes astray. Little over 15 minutes of the first period remaining at the Camp Nou. Bayern remain 4-0 ahead on aggregate.

32 minAgain it's good movement from the away side as Robben attempts to feed Muller, but Song is back to challenge at the vital moment. Barcelona attempt to cut through the Bayern midfield with Iniesta, but once more he cannot find a teammate. Fabregas does come close moments later, but Neuer manages to collect at the vital moment.

34 minFirst booking of the match is for Robben as the Dutch winger dives into a challenge with Song. The former Arsenal midfielder has been the pick of the Barcelona players thus far this evening. Well, Bayern may not have scored, but their four-goal lead remains in tact. Little over 10 minutes of the first period remaining. Bayern are well on their way here.

36 minHalf-chance for the home side as Iniesta collects possession outside the box before moving past Martinez, but his final effort is blocked by Lahm, with Pedro screaming for the ball on the right. Pedro is involved down the left moments later, but Van Buyten is on hand to make the clearance.

38 minAnother half-chance for the away side as Robben drives into the Barcelona box before striking an effort towards goal, but once more Song is across to make the challenge. There is no question that there are goals in this match for the German outfit. Iniesta attempts to go alone down the other end, but Martinez is across to win the free kick.

41 minGood spell for Bayern in the last couple of moments as they continue to force high balls into the box, but Pique and Song have both been impressive thus far. We have not seen much from Villa and Fabregas down the other end, however, with the away side so tight and compact in defence. Little under five minutes of the first period remaining. Bayern's four-goal lead remains intact.

43 minHalf-chance for the home side once more as Adriano strikes an effort from outside the box, but Neuer was comfortable dealing with the danger. Pedro has another opportunity moments later after collecting a cross from Fabregas, but Boateng is across to clear. Moments later Alves finds a deep cross into the box, but Neuer collects.

45 minSlightly subdued atmosphere in the latter stages of the first period as Barcelona continue to lose possession in the final third. Pedro attempts to force a low cross into the box, but he can only find the side netting. Meanwhile, the fourth official indicates that we will play an additional one minute as Alves is booked for a late challenge on Schweinsteiger.

45 min+1HALF-TIME: Barcelona 0-0 Bayern Munich

8.32pmSo there we have it. The referee brings the first period to an end with the two sides level at 0-0. It looked to be the impossible task for Barcelona at the start of play, which it has indeed proved to be. In truth, the home side have never looked like scoring despite a couple of half-chances. Bayern, however, could have had a couple on the counter.

8.37pmSTATISTICS: Barcelona have had more of the possession with 59%, while they have had six attempts. Quite remarkably, Bayern have failed to test Valdes in the first period, with the majority of their close-range efforts being blocked by a defender. Just a reminder that the winner of this tie will face Borussia Dortmund in the final, who overcame Real Madrid last time out.

8.42pmBENCH WATCH: Barcelona have a certain Argentine on the bench, along with goalkeeper Jose Pinto, Alexis Sanchez, Thiago, Jonathan Dos Santos, Martin Montoya and Cristian Tello. There are certainly goals in that list of players. Meanwhile, Bayern have goalkeeper Tom Starke, Dante, Xherdan Shaqiri, Rafinha, Luis Gustavo, Mario Gomez and Anatoliy Tymoshchuk in reserve.

46 minHere we go then. Both sets of players join us on the pitch ahead of kickoff. No changes for either side at the break. Just a reminder that only a 4-0 home win would take this into extra time. A German goal would leave Barcelona needing to score six times. Right, the home side get the half underway.

48 minBright start to the half from the home side with Song, Iniesta and Xavi enjoying possession of the ball. Eventually Xavi has it down the right, but Alaba is across to press. I suspect we could see Messi introduced within the next 15 minutes or so. Surely Barcelona cannot pull this off without their main man?

48 minBayern threaten on the counter attack once more as Muller collects possession before attempting to feed Robben, but Song is across to make the challenge. Bayern again threaten with a free kick in the dangerous area, but Schweinsteiger's set piece is collected by Valdes, who attempts to release Villa on the counter.

48 minGOAL! Barcelona 0-1 Bayern (Robben)

49 minStunning, just stunning from Robben. It's wonderful from Alaba as the left-back finds Robben on the right, the winger steps inside before curling an effort into the top corner. That is game, set and match. Bayern are all but in the Champions League final.

51 minBarcelona now need to score six times if they are to make it through this evening. Adriano attempts to force the issue as he delivers a high cross into the box, but Boateng is on hand to make the challenge. Xavi is down the left moments later, but again it is wonderful defensive work from Ribery, who is across to clear the danger.

53 minHalf-chance for the home side this time as Villa collects possession outside the box before striking an effort on goal, but Martinez is back to make the challenge. Hardly time to take a breath at the moment as Robben threatens down the other end, but he loses possession before Villa strikes one wide of the post.

55 minWho could have predicted that Bayern would be 5-0 ahead at this stage of the semi-final tie? It really is quite extraordinary. It is the away supporters that can be heard at the moment with little over 35 minutes of football remaining. Not too much to report in terms of chances in the last couple of moments with the home side guilty of a couple of late challenges.

57 minCHANCE! Another opportunity on the counter for the away side as Ribery finds Robben in the box, but the Dutchman can only clip his effort wide of the post. Meanwhile, Barcelona make their first change of the match as Xavi is replaced by Alexis Sanchez. Still no Messi, I doubt whether we will now see the Argentine this evening.

59 minBarcelona attempt to force the issue moments later as Alves fires a low cross into the box, but Van Buyten is across to make the clearance. Ribery attempts to break down the other end, but the Frenchman has his pocket picked by Song. Little over 30 minutes of football remaining and Barcelona need to score at least six times. Likely? Never.

62 minNot too much to report in the last couple of moments with both sides struggling to find that elusive pass in the final third. Again Iniesta has possession outside the box, but again Boateng makes the challenge. There is no question that there are more goals in this match, but Bayern look just as likely. Plenty of time for more drama at the Camp Nou.

64 minAnother half-chance for the away side as Alaba strikes an effort from outside the box, but it was always moving wide of the post. Barcelona continue to enjoy possession in the Bayern half, but they just cannot find room behind this incredible defence. It appears that Thiago will soon join us as Barcelona's second change of the evening.

66 minAnother half-chance for the home side as Sanchez picks the pocket of Alaba before firing a low cross into the box, but Boateng is across to clear. Second change of the night for Barcelona moments later as Thiago replaces Iniesta. I think the fact that we have not seen Messi is the clearest indication that even Vilanova knows that this match is over. Little under 25 minutes of football remaining.

68 minBayern make their first change of the evening as Luis Gustavo replaces Schweinsteiger, who has just been stunning. The German was a booking away from missing the final, but has come through unscathed. No lack of trying from Barcelona in the last couple of moments, but they just cannot get the ball. Fabregas does collect moments later, but Ribery is once more on hand to clear the danger.

71 minBarcelona continue to pass and probe outside the Bayern box, but they just cannot force the issue in the final third. Pique attempts to threaten with a strike from outside the box, but Martinez is on hand to make the block. There has been no real onslaught from the Spanish outfit at any point during this match. But credit must be given to Bayern for that.

72 minWhat an incredible occasion it will be at Wembley when Bayern and Dortmund face off in the Champions League final. What a night for German football. Robben almost grabs his second down the other end, but he is quelled by a fine challenge from Pique. Little over 15 minutes of football remaining as Pedro strikes straight at the goalkeeper.

72 minGOAL! Barcelona 0-2 Bayern Munich (OG Pique)

The second goal of the game, and sixth Munich goal of the semifinal, came on a Gerard Pique own goal. He tried to clear it over the bar, but he flubbed it and it went straight into the back of his own net:

73 minBayern have their second of the evening as Ribery fires a low cross into the box, with Pique only able to smash into his own net. That just about sums up their evening. Now Barcelona need to score seven times in the last 15 minutes or so.

75 minHalf-chance for the home side moments later as Villa meets a cross from Alves, but his header is over the crossbar. Meanwhile, Bayern make their second change of the match as Martinez is replaced by Tymoshchuk. The Spanish midfielder was another in danger of missing the final.

76 minGOAL! Barcelona 0-3 Bayern (Muller)

77 minOh my good grief. Take this in, because you will never see anything like this from a Barcelona team again. Bayern have their third of the night as Muller heads a Ribery cross into the back of the net. Meanwhile, Lahm is replaced by Rafinha for the final 10 minutes or so.

79 minBarcelona just want this match to end at the moment as Pique dives into a dangerous challenge with Robben. His frustration grows as he walks over to the linesman. It was not a good challenge from the former Manchester United defender. This could get worse for the Spanish outfit in the latter stages.

82 minReally scrappy match at the moment with Barcelona diving into challenge after challenge. It does seem strange that Messi did not start this evening. It is obvious to see why he did not come on when the Spanish outfit conceded the first goal, but why not start him? The La Liga season is over.

84 minBarcelona continue to keep possession in their own half, but still they cannot find a way through this stern Bayern defence. The stadium is now emptying as the Barcelona supporters make their way towards the exits. How will the Spanish outfit respond next season? I am certain that they will.

86 minNasty clash of heads between Thiago and Van Buyten leaves the Spaniard on the ground, but he does return to his deet following a period of treatment. In truth, everyone inside this stadium just wants this game to end. Bayern already have their sights set on the final. Well, unless Barcelona score eight times in the next four minutes or so?!

88 minVilla has a half-chance as he collects possession outside the box before curling an effort towards goal, but Neuer was always comfortable claiming the danger. Not too much from the away side in the last few minutes, but they will not mind with their seven-goal lead intact. Final change for the home side as Martra is replaced by Martin Montoya.

90 minHalf-chance for Rafinha as the right-back drives into the box before striking an effort from close range, but it was always moving wide of the post. Meanwhile, the fourth official indicates that we will play an additional one minute of stoppage time. Bayern have possession.

90 min+1FULL-TIME: Barcelona 0-3 Bayern Munich (0-7 on aggregate)