Oscar gives Chelsea victory in Prague

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Sparta Prague 0 Chelsea 1

Chelsea’s prospects of reaching the last 16 of the Europa League look good after Oscar’s late goal gave them a first-leg victory in Prague.

Within 40 seconds of coming on as a substitute, the Brazilian exchanged passes with Eden Hazard, glided into the penalty area and fired home.

It was Sparta Prague’s first competitive match since 6 December and Chelsea certainly looked the sharper team early on.

The home side then settled and David Lafata missed two chances to put them ahead before the break.

He failed to connect with Ladislav Krejčí’s cross and also blazed over from six yards.

The Blues had their moments too and Marko Marin impressed before going off midway though the second half.

When Frank Lampard directed a header straight at Sparta keeper Tomas Vaclík, the game appeared to be petering out into a draw.

But Oscar struck with nine minutes remaining – his sixth European goal of the season.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech; Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Cahill, Bertrand; Ramires, Lampard; Marin (Benayoun 67), Mata (Oscar 80), Hazard, Torres.
Subs not used: Turnbull, Ferreira, Cole, Terry, Ake.

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