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Napoli 2-1 Borussia Dortmund: BVB see red in Naples defeat
Napoli kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win over last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
The Italians opened the scoring early on as Gonzalo Higuain nodded home and the hosts' task was made infinitely easier just before half-time as Mats Hummels left the field injured and Roman Weidenfeller inexplicably handled outside the box to earn himself a red card.
Dortmund's threat was significantly blunted by those blows - allied to Jurgen Klopp's dismissal to the stands - and they were helpless to prevent a fantastic long-rang free kick from Lorenzo Insigne doubling Napoli's lead.
But there was still time for the 10-man Germans to grab a late consolation when Juan Camilo Zuniga flicked a cross into his own net with five minutes of normal time remaining.
With no injury worries of note among his squad, Rafael Benitez named a strong, attacking line-up including the likes of Marek Hamsik, Lorenzo Insigne and Jose Callejon. The visitors, meanwhile, named a patched-up starting XI due to the absences of Ilkay Gundogan, Lukasz Piszczek and Sebastian Kehl.
Despite the makeshift nature of Klopp's team, Dortmund undoubtedly made the better start in Naples. But the hosts responded in kind, with a five-minute spell of pressure leading to Insigne driving narrowly wide before Higuain was denied one-on-one by a brilliant Hummels tackle.
The topsy-turvy nature of the first half did not let up, with Lewandowski the recipient of the next clear opportunity. The Poland striker latched onto a fabulous throughball to sneak into the box but could not beat the sprawling Pepe Reina in the Napoli goal.
And, perhaps unsurprisingly, last year's Champions League runners-up were punished for that miss in the very next attack. Zuniga picked the ball up on the left-hand side before swinging in an inch-perfect cross that Higuain nonchalantly headed into the far corner of the goal to send the home crowd into raptures.
On the touchline, Dortmund coach Klopp remonstrated angrily with the fourth official over his failure to allow Neven Subotic back onto the pitch following a head injury, but his rant only served to bring him a red card.
Dortmund responded in bullish fashion when they received a further blow just before half-time, replacing injured centre-back Hummels with forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
But things went from bad to worse seconds later as goalkeeper Weidenfeller rushed out of his box to meet the ball but could only handle to prevent Higuain breaking through and deservedly saw red.
Jakub Blaszczykowski subsequently made way for substitute shot-stopper Mitchell Langerak before the break.
Dortmund began the second half understandably deeper in an attempt to nullify their opponents' numerical advantage but were lucky to avoid conceding again on the hour mark, as a rifled Insigne cross bounced off the knee of Hamsik six yards out.
However, it mattered little in the end, as Insigne ensured the Italians would take a two-goal lead in fabulous fashion. The 22-year-old produced an unstoppable free-kick from 30 yards out that rattled the crossbar on the way past a helpless Langerak.
Aubameyang upped the stakes in terms of audacious efforts in the immediate aftermath as he struck the bar from distance before Dries Mertens also got involved as his clever free kick to the near post almost snuck in.
Dortmund were given hope in the dying moments as Zuniga needlessly swung at a cross into the box, to leave Reina no chance of stopping the ball bouncing over the line off the post.
But the visitors could not launch a late comeback to avoid defeat as the home side hung on to lay down a marker in the group.
Napoli kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win over last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
The Italians opened the scoring early on as Gonzalo Higuain nodded home and the hosts' task was made infinitely easier just before half-time as Mats Hummels left the field injured and Roman Weidenfeller inexplicably handled outside the box to earn himself a red card.
Dortmund's threat was significantly blunted by those blows - allied to Jurgen Klopp's dismissal to the stands - and they were helpless to prevent a fantastic long-rang free kick from Lorenzo Insigne doubling Napoli's lead.
But there was still time for the 10-man Germans to grab a late consolation when Juan Camilo Zuniga flicked a cross into his own net with five minutes of normal time remaining.
With no injury worries of note among his squad, Rafael Benitez named a strong, attacking line-up including the likes of Marek Hamsik, Lorenzo Insigne and Jose Callejon. The visitors, meanwhile, named a patched-up starting XI due to the absences of Ilkay Gundogan, Lukasz Piszczek and Sebastian Kehl.
Despite the makeshift nature of Klopp's team, Dortmund undoubtedly made the better start in Naples. But the hosts responded in kind, with a five-minute spell of pressure leading to Insigne driving narrowly wide before Higuain was denied one-on-one by a brilliant Hummels tackle.
The topsy-turvy nature of the first half did not let up, with Lewandowski the recipient of the next clear opportunity. The Poland striker latched onto a fabulous throughball to sneak into the box but could not beat the sprawling Pepe Reina in the Napoli goal.
And, perhaps unsurprisingly, last year's Champions League runners-up were punished for that miss in the very next attack. Zuniga picked the ball up on the left-hand side before swinging in an inch-perfect cross that Higuain nonchalantly headed into the far corner of the goal to send the home crowd into raptures.
On the touchline, Dortmund coach Klopp remonstrated angrily with the fourth official over his failure to allow Neven Subotic back onto the pitch following a head injury, but his rant only served to bring him a red card.
Dortmund responded in bullish fashion when they received a further blow just before half-time, replacing injured centre-back Hummels with forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
But things went from bad to worse seconds later as goalkeeper Weidenfeller rushed out of his box to meet the ball but could only handle to prevent Higuain breaking through and deservedly saw red.
Jakub Blaszczykowski subsequently made way for substitute shot-stopper Mitchell Langerak before the break.
Dortmund began the second half understandably deeper in an attempt to nullify their opponents' numerical advantage but were lucky to avoid conceding again on the hour mark, as a rifled Insigne cross bounced off the knee of Hamsik six yards out.
However, it mattered little in the end, as Insigne ensured the Italians would take a two-goal lead in fabulous fashion. The 22-year-old produced an unstoppable free-kick from 30 yards out that rattled the crossbar on the way past a helpless Langerak.
Aubameyang upped the stakes in terms of audacious efforts in the immediate aftermath as he struck the bar from distance before Dries Mertens also got involved as his clever free kick to the near post almost snuck in.
Dortmund were given hope in the dying moments as Zuniga needlessly swung at a cross into the box, to leave Reina no chance of stopping the ball bouncing over the line off the post.
But the visitors could not launch a late comeback to avoid defeat as the home side hung on to lay down a marker in the group.
Barcelona 4-0 Ajax: Messi hat-trick seals convincing win
Lionel Messi once more took centre stage as his hat-trick helped Barcelona to a 4-0 victory over Ajax in the Champions League.
The Argentinian scored in both halves of the Group H fixture at Camp Nou to give the Blaugrana victory in their opening European encounter.
It marked an emotional Champions League debut for coach Gerardo Martino, with the win coming just a few days after the death of his father.
After a bright opening, Messi broke the deadlock with fierce free-kick in the 22nd minute.
His second came 10 minutes after half-time with a cool finish from inside the area, before Gerard Pique put gloss on the scoreline with a header from Neymar’s cross and Messi completed his treble when he feigned his shot before guiding an effort into the corner.
Kolbeinn Sigthorsson could have grabbed a consolation, but he saw his 77th-minute penalty saved by Victor Valdes.
Martino included Messi and Neymar in Barcelona’s starting XI, with the latter making his Champions League debut.
The Dutch side had Siem de Jong available, following his recovery from a collapsed lung.
Barcelona dominated possession in the opening exchanges and they took the lead when Messi once again displayed his brilliance with a stunning free kick, 22 minutes in.
After being felled by Lerin Duarte on the right, he picked himself up to hit a thunderous strike, with the ball going in off the the post as Kenneth Vermeer failed to keep it out at full stretch.
Ajax nearly stole an equaliser on the half-hour mark when Bojan curled a cross deep towards the far post and a diving header from Ricardo van Rhijn forced a smart reaction save from Valdes.
The visitors could have had a penalty when Sigthorsson went to ground under a challenge from Pique. The loose ball was met by Duarte, but he placed his first-time effort straight at Valdes.
After surviving those scares, Messi effectively ended the game as a contest in the 55th minute.
He controlled a Sergio Busquets pass on the right side of the box before feinting inside Stefano Denswil and firing his effort past Vermeer.
Barcelona continued to press and Neymar and Dani Alves both had efforts blocked.
And the pressure told in the 69th minute when Neymar delivered an in-swinging cross from the left that was met by the head of Pique to make it 3-0.
Messi then completed his hat-trick with 15 minutes remaining. His shimmy confused the whole defence, including Vermeer, before he slotted into the far corner.
Ajax could have had a consolation when Javier Mascherano fouled substitute Thulani Serero in the area but Sigthorsson saw his penalty beaten away by Valdes.
Lionel Messi once more took centre stage as his hat-trick helped Barcelona to a 4-0 victory over Ajax in the Champions League.
The Argentinian scored in both halves of the Group H fixture at Camp Nou to give the Blaugrana victory in their opening European encounter.
It marked an emotional Champions League debut for coach Gerardo Martino, with the win coming just a few days after the death of his father.
After a bright opening, Messi broke the deadlock with fierce free-kick in the 22nd minute.
His second came 10 minutes after half-time with a cool finish from inside the area, before Gerard Pique put gloss on the scoreline with a header from Neymar’s cross and Messi completed his treble when he feigned his shot before guiding an effort into the corner.
Kolbeinn Sigthorsson could have grabbed a consolation, but he saw his 77th-minute penalty saved by Victor Valdes.
Martino included Messi and Neymar in Barcelona’s starting XI, with the latter making his Champions League debut.
The Dutch side had Siem de Jong available, following his recovery from a collapsed lung.
Barcelona dominated possession in the opening exchanges and they took the lead when Messi once again displayed his brilliance with a stunning free kick, 22 minutes in.
After being felled by Lerin Duarte on the right, he picked himself up to hit a thunderous strike, with the ball going in off the the post as Kenneth Vermeer failed to keep it out at full stretch.
Ajax nearly stole an equaliser on the half-hour mark when Bojan curled a cross deep towards the far post and a diving header from Ricardo van Rhijn forced a smart reaction save from Valdes.
The visitors could have had a penalty when Sigthorsson went to ground under a challenge from Pique. The loose ball was met by Duarte, but he placed his first-time effort straight at Valdes.
After surviving those scares, Messi effectively ended the game as a contest in the 55th minute.
He controlled a Sergio Busquets pass on the right side of the box before feinting inside Stefano Denswil and firing his effort past Vermeer.
Barcelona continued to press and Neymar and Dani Alves both had efforts blocked.
And the pressure told in the 69th minute when Neymar delivered an in-swinging cross from the left that was met by the head of Pique to make it 3-0.
Messi then completed his hat-trick with 15 minutes remaining. His shimmy confused the whole defence, including Vermeer, before he slotted into the far corner.
Ajax could have had a consolation when Javier Mascherano fouled substitute Thulani Serero in the area but Sigthorsson saw his penalty beaten away by Valdes.
Marseille 1-2 Arsenal: Walcott & Ramsey gets Gunners off to perfect start
Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey scored second-half goals as Arsenal opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win at Marseille.
Arsene Wenger's men earned a win in their last visit to the Stade Velodrome back in 2011, and they replicated they feat on Wednesday, Walcott finding the net with a close-range volley before Ramsey wrapped things up with a fine individual effort after the break.
Jordan Ayew grabbed a late consolation from the penalty spot for the hosts, but Arsenal held on to claim all three points.
Elie Baup made just one change to the Marseille side that drew 1-1 with Toulouse on Saturday, Andre Ayew replacing Florian Thauvin on the left-hand side of midfield.
Arsenal's only alteration came in defence, with manager Arsene Wenger - who has seen his side win five of their last six competitive outings - opting to select the experienced Per Mertesacker in favour of Carl Jenkinson.
Marseille made a bright start to proceedings with Andre-Pierre Gignac and Mathieu Valbuena both testing Wojciech Szczesny in the early going.
Arsenal responded quickly however, Theo Walcott forcing Steve Mandanda into a save with a close-range effort after beating left-back Jeremy Morel for pace.
Still, it was the hosts that continued to dictate play. Valbuena volleyed over before Andre Ayew headed narrowly wide after an excellent right-wing cross from Dimitri Payet.
The visitors struggled to gain a foothold in the midfield, with Valbuena and 21-year-old Giannelli Imbula particularly impressive for Baup’s men.
And Marseille almost got their reward for a positive display shortly before the break, Gignac heading just over the bar at the near post after powering onto a Payet corner.
Baup's side continued in the ascendancy straight after the break, Rod Fanni volleying inches wide of the post after good work down the right from Alaixys Romao.
Arsenal remained an attacking threat, though, and they almost took the lead in superb fashion, Kieran Gibbs denied by a fantastic reaction save from Mandanda after latching on to a deft backheel from Mesut Ozil.
The game quickly became stretched, with both sides crafting regular goalscoring opportunities, Payet keeping Szczesny busy with a fierce drive, before Jack Wilshere drew a near-post stop from Mandanda at the other end.
Arsenal never looked settled at the back, and they had Gibbs to thank for keeping them level as he showed great awareness to head a Payet cross off the line after miscommunication between Mertesacker and Szczesny.
But Marseille were finally made to pay for their profligacy 19 minutes into the second half, Walcott firing a magnificent volley into the top corner after Morel had failed to deal with Gibbs' far-post cross.
Payet and Valbeuna both then went close as the Ligue 1 club searched for an equaliser, but it was Arsenal who proved the more clinical of the two sides, Ramsey securing the points as he jinked through the home defence before sending a precise low shot beyond the grasp of Mandanda.
Marseille did get one back in injury time, though, Jordan Ayew scoring from 12 yards after Laurent Koscielny had felled Andre Ayew in the box.
Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey scored second-half goals as Arsenal opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 win at Marseille.
Arsene Wenger's men earned a win in their last visit to the Stade Velodrome back in 2011, and they replicated they feat on Wednesday, Walcott finding the net with a close-range volley before Ramsey wrapped things up with a fine individual effort after the break.
Jordan Ayew grabbed a late consolation from the penalty spot for the hosts, but Arsenal held on to claim all three points.
Elie Baup made just one change to the Marseille side that drew 1-1 with Toulouse on Saturday, Andre Ayew replacing Florian Thauvin on the left-hand side of midfield.
Arsenal's only alteration came in defence, with manager Arsene Wenger - who has seen his side win five of their last six competitive outings - opting to select the experienced Per Mertesacker in favour of Carl Jenkinson.
Marseille made a bright start to proceedings with Andre-Pierre Gignac and Mathieu Valbuena both testing Wojciech Szczesny in the early going.
Arsenal responded quickly however, Theo Walcott forcing Steve Mandanda into a save with a close-range effort after beating left-back Jeremy Morel for pace.
Still, it was the hosts that continued to dictate play. Valbuena volleyed over before Andre Ayew headed narrowly wide after an excellent right-wing cross from Dimitri Payet.
The visitors struggled to gain a foothold in the midfield, with Valbuena and 21-year-old Giannelli Imbula particularly impressive for Baup’s men.
And Marseille almost got their reward for a positive display shortly before the break, Gignac heading just over the bar at the near post after powering onto a Payet corner.
Baup's side continued in the ascendancy straight after the break, Rod Fanni volleying inches wide of the post after good work down the right from Alaixys Romao.
Arsenal remained an attacking threat, though, and they almost took the lead in superb fashion, Kieran Gibbs denied by a fantastic reaction save from Mandanda after latching on to a deft backheel from Mesut Ozil.
The game quickly became stretched, with both sides crafting regular goalscoring opportunities, Payet keeping Szczesny busy with a fierce drive, before Jack Wilshere drew a near-post stop from Mandanda at the other end.
Arsenal never looked settled at the back, and they had Gibbs to thank for keeping them level as he showed great awareness to head a Payet cross off the line after miscommunication between Mertesacker and Szczesny.
But Marseille were finally made to pay for their profligacy 19 minutes into the second half, Walcott firing a magnificent volley into the top corner after Morel had failed to deal with Gibbs' far-post cross.
Payet and Valbeuna both then went close as the Ligue 1 club searched for an equaliser, but it was Arsenal who proved the more clinical of the two sides, Ramsey securing the points as he jinked through the home defence before sending a precise low shot beyond the grasp of Mandanda.
Marseille did get one back in injury time, though, Jordan Ayew scoring from 12 yards after Laurent Koscielny had felled Andre Ayew in the box.
AC Milan 2-0 Celtic: Late own goal and Muntari strike break Bhoys' resolve
Emilio Izaguirre's own goal and a Sulley Muntari effort gave AC Milan a 2-0 Champions League win over Celtic at San Siro on Wednesday.
Cristian Zapata's strike deflected off the Bhoys defender to put the hosts ahead after 82 minutes and, with the visitors pushing for a way back into the game, the Ghanaian doubled the Italian side's lead three minutes later to get the Rossoneri off to a winning start in Group H.
The well-documented Milan injury list meant that Massimiliano Allegri was forced into a number of changes, with Stephan El Shaarawy, Kaka, Giampaolo Pazzini, Riccardo Montolivo and Ignazio Abate among the absentees.
Slovenia international Valter Birsa made his debut for the club while Antonio Nocerino partnered Nigel de Jong in midfield for the clash.
Celtic had injuries of their own to contend with and were unable to name James Forrest or Joe Ledley in their matchday squad, although Adam Matthews shook off an ankle problem to start.
Mario Balotelli was quickly among the action, volleying an effort at Fraser Forster after three minutes, but the Celtic goalkeeper was equal to the task as he palmed the strike away.
Celtic's first chance came from a indirect free kick inside the area following a backpass but Charlie Mulgrew saw his shot deflected over the crossbar.
Alessandro Matri's header then forced another good save from Forster before Nocerino fired narrowly over just after the half-hour mark.
Balotelli again threatened a minute from the break when his low, swerving effort almost deflected into the far corner of Forster's goal.
Giorgos Samaras had the first opportunity of the second half for Celtic, with the Greek firing just past Christian Abbiati's post while Muntari headed just over for the hosts a minute after the hour mark.
After a lengthy period of Milan pressure, Anthony Stokes crashed a free kick against the crossbar for the visitors 10 minutes from time with Abbiati beaten.
However, two minutes later, Milan had their lead courtesy of a Zapata effort from outside the area that deflected off Izaguirre and in.
Muntari was then on hand three minutes later to make it two, bundling home from close-range after Balotelli's free kick had come back off the post to ensure that Milan came away with the three points.
Emilio Izaguirre's own goal and a Sulley Muntari effort gave AC Milan a 2-0 Champions League win over Celtic at San Siro on Wednesday.
Cristian Zapata's strike deflected off the Bhoys defender to put the hosts ahead after 82 minutes and, with the visitors pushing for a way back into the game, the Ghanaian doubled the Italian side's lead three minutes later to get the Rossoneri off to a winning start in Group H.
The well-documented Milan injury list meant that Massimiliano Allegri was forced into a number of changes, with Stephan El Shaarawy, Kaka, Giampaolo Pazzini, Riccardo Montolivo and Ignazio Abate among the absentees.
Slovenia international Valter Birsa made his debut for the club while Antonio Nocerino partnered Nigel de Jong in midfield for the clash.
Celtic had injuries of their own to contend with and were unable to name James Forrest or Joe Ledley in their matchday squad, although Adam Matthews shook off an ankle problem to start.
Mario Balotelli was quickly among the action, volleying an effort at Fraser Forster after three minutes, but the Celtic goalkeeper was equal to the task as he palmed the strike away.
Celtic's first chance came from a indirect free kick inside the area following a backpass but Charlie Mulgrew saw his shot deflected over the crossbar.
Alessandro Matri's header then forced another good save from Forster before Nocerino fired narrowly over just after the half-hour mark.
Balotelli again threatened a minute from the break when his low, swerving effort almost deflected into the far corner of Forster's goal.
Giorgos Samaras had the first opportunity of the second half for Celtic, with the Greek firing just past Christian Abbiati's post while Muntari headed just over for the hosts a minute after the hour mark.
After a lengthy period of Milan pressure, Anthony Stokes crashed a free kick against the crossbar for the visitors 10 minutes from time with Abbiati beaten.
However, two minutes later, Milan had their lead courtesy of a Zapata effort from outside the area that deflected off Izaguirre and in.
Muntari was then on hand three minutes later to make it two, bundling home from close-range after Balotelli's free kick had come back off the post to ensure that Milan came away with the three points.
Chelsea 1-2 Basel: Salah and Streller stun Stamford Bridge
Jose Mourinho endured frustration on his return to Champions League action with Chelsea as Basel came from a goal down to win 2-1.
Six years to the day after a 1-1 draw with Rosenborg that represented the final game of Mourinho's first spell in charge at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea were stunned by second-half goals from Mohamed Salah and Marco Streller.
Oscar fired the hosts ahead in the 45th minute in the Group E clash with his sixth goal in seven Champions League outings and the Brazilian also hit the bar prior to Salah’s classy left-footed leveller.
That goal prompted Chelsea to throw men forward, yet it was Basel - always dangerous on the break - who struck again when Streller beat Petr Cech with a near-post header from a corner.
Willian was handed his Chelsea debut and Marco van Ginkel a first start as Mourinho made five changes from the side beaten 1-0 by Everton at the weekend.
Basel recalled a host of players after fielding a weakened side for their Schweizer Pokal victory against Munsingen.
Mourinho's men unsurprisingly started the game on the front foot, albeit without creating any clear-cut opportunities.
There was a scare for Basel goalkeeper Yann Sommer in the 15th minute when he fumbled a corner from the left, but a free-kick was swiftly awarded in his favour.
The pacey Salah - a scorer at Stamford Bridge in last season's Europa League semi-final between the two sides - represented the main threat when Basel launched occasional attacks.
After Eden Hazard had spurned a rare clear sighting of goal for Chelsea following good work from Samuel Eto'o, Salah also proved wasteful when cutting in from the right and curling a shot over the bar.
Despite dominating possession and the corner count, the hosts remained frustrated as half-time approached.
However, Chelsea were lifted on the stroke of the interval as Oscar popped up with a timely goal.
David Luiz set the attack in motion by stepping into midfield and Oscar latched on to a delicate throughball from Frank Lampard to find the bottom-left corner with a first-time shot on the turn.
Streller was close to connecting with a left-wing cross early in the second half before Oscar struck the bar at the other end with a tremendous effort from just outside the area.
Hazard failed to hit the target once again either side of Branislav Ivanovic twice threatening from set-pieces.
Chelsea were then punished for not extending their lead when a cross from the left broke via Streller to Salah, who emulated Oscar by only requiring one touch to find the net.
Although Chelsea poured forward in search of a late winner, it was Basel who finished the stronger and their encouraging play gained reward as Streller shocked the home crowd.
Jose Mourinho endured frustration on his return to Champions League action with Chelsea as Basel came from a goal down to win 2-1.
Six years to the day after a 1-1 draw with Rosenborg that represented the final game of Mourinho's first spell in charge at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea were stunned by second-half goals from Mohamed Salah and Marco Streller.
Oscar fired the hosts ahead in the 45th minute in the Group E clash with his sixth goal in seven Champions League outings and the Brazilian also hit the bar prior to Salah’s classy left-footed leveller.
That goal prompted Chelsea to throw men forward, yet it was Basel - always dangerous on the break - who struck again when Streller beat Petr Cech with a near-post header from a corner.
Willian was handed his Chelsea debut and Marco van Ginkel a first start as Mourinho made five changes from the side beaten 1-0 by Everton at the weekend.
Basel recalled a host of players after fielding a weakened side for their Schweizer Pokal victory against Munsingen.
Mourinho's men unsurprisingly started the game on the front foot, albeit without creating any clear-cut opportunities.
There was a scare for Basel goalkeeper Yann Sommer in the 15th minute when he fumbled a corner from the left, but a free-kick was swiftly awarded in his favour.
The pacey Salah - a scorer at Stamford Bridge in last season's Europa League semi-final between the two sides - represented the main threat when Basel launched occasional attacks.
After Eden Hazard had spurned a rare clear sighting of goal for Chelsea following good work from Samuel Eto'o, Salah also proved wasteful when cutting in from the right and curling a shot over the bar.
Despite dominating possession and the corner count, the hosts remained frustrated as half-time approached.
However, Chelsea were lifted on the stroke of the interval as Oscar popped up with a timely goal.
David Luiz set the attack in motion by stepping into midfield and Oscar latched on to a delicate throughball from Frank Lampard to find the bottom-left corner with a first-time shot on the turn.
Streller was close to connecting with a left-wing cross early in the second half before Oscar struck the bar at the other end with a tremendous effort from just outside the area.
Hazard failed to hit the target once again either side of Branislav Ivanovic twice threatening from set-pieces.
Chelsea were then punished for not extending their lead when a cross from the left broke via Streller to Salah, who emulated Oscar by only requiring one touch to find the net.
Although Chelsea poured forward in search of a late winner, it was Basel who finished the stronger and their encouraging play gained reward as Streller shocked the home crowd.
Schalke 3-0 Steaua Bucharest: Knappen trio seal battling win
Second half goals from Atsuto Uchida, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Julian Draxler ensured that Schalke defeated Steaua Bucharest in a battling Champions League victory on Wednesday.
Uchida struck first midway through the second half, after his looped cross found its way into the net, before Boateng slotted home with a calm finish.
Draxler added a thrid with a well-taken chip five minutes from time, to give the German side an early initiative in Group E.Schalke named an unchanged side from the one that beat Mainz at the weekend, with Boateng handed his first Champions League start for the club, though Jermaine Jones failed to prove his fitness.
Steaua, the only team from Romania in this year's group stage, had the luxury of having virtually a full-strength squad to choose from, with striker Federico Piovaccari making way for Pantelis Kapetanos up front.
The home side dominated possession in the early exchanges, with Draxler finding space on the left flank on several occasions and it took just nine minutes before Steaua goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu was called into action, getting down well to make a smart save from Adam Szalai's volley.Tatarusanu was on hand again four minutes later, this time doing well to parry away a Boateng header.
The visitors continued to be deprived of possession as the first half wore on, but remained resolute at the back as Schalke looked to release the pace of both Draxler and Jefferson Farfan.
Farfan was on hand to set up what should have been the opening goal after half an hour, playing a low ball in from the right for Boateng, who could only drag his shot wide from 10 yards out.The hosts were nearly made to pay for their wastefulness around a minute later, when Cristian Tanase stung the palms of Timo Hildebrand in the Schalke goal from distance, in what proved to be a rare first-half attack for Steaua.
Schalke continued to threaten and were unlucky not be ahead seconds before the break, when a Dennis Aogo corner found its way through to Roman Neustadter, whose shot was deflected just wide.
Steaua looked bright after the break, carving out several opportunities with in the first 10 minutes of the half, with Alexandru Bourceanu causing problems for the home defence.
First a whipped Bourceanu corner found Kapetanos, who fired over, shortly before the winger decided to have a go himself, curling a long-range shot just wide.
Another Bourceanu corner caused yet more problems for the Schalke defence just a few minutes later, with the hosts having Uchida to thank after he headed a deflected ball off the line.And Uchida's night got even better just 10 minutes later, when the Japan international's deep cross eluded everyone before sailing into the net.
The goal brought a sense of relief among the home fans, and 11 minutes later Schalke doubled their lead, when a perfectly-weighted ball from Draxler found Boateng in the area, who applied a calm finish to score.
Draxler himself got on the scoresheet three minutes later, latching on to a threaded through-ball from substitute Christian Fuchs before chipping over the goalkeeper.
It should have been 4-0 as the game advanced into stoppage-time, but Christian Clemens was denied by the woodwork, on what was a great night for Jens Keller's team.
Second half goals from Atsuto Uchida, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Julian Draxler ensured that Schalke defeated Steaua Bucharest in a battling Champions League victory on Wednesday.
Uchida struck first midway through the second half, after his looped cross found its way into the net, before Boateng slotted home with a calm finish.
Draxler added a thrid with a well-taken chip five minutes from time, to give the German side an early initiative in Group E.Schalke named an unchanged side from the one that beat Mainz at the weekend, with Boateng handed his first Champions League start for the club, though Jermaine Jones failed to prove his fitness.
Steaua, the only team from Romania in this year's group stage, had the luxury of having virtually a full-strength squad to choose from, with striker Federico Piovaccari making way for Pantelis Kapetanos up front.
The home side dominated possession in the early exchanges, with Draxler finding space on the left flank on several occasions and it took just nine minutes before Steaua goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu was called into action, getting down well to make a smart save from Adam Szalai's volley.Tatarusanu was on hand again four minutes later, this time doing well to parry away a Boateng header.
The visitors continued to be deprived of possession as the first half wore on, but remained resolute at the back as Schalke looked to release the pace of both Draxler and Jefferson Farfan.
Farfan was on hand to set up what should have been the opening goal after half an hour, playing a low ball in from the right for Boateng, who could only drag his shot wide from 10 yards out.The hosts were nearly made to pay for their wastefulness around a minute later, when Cristian Tanase stung the palms of Timo Hildebrand in the Schalke goal from distance, in what proved to be a rare first-half attack for Steaua.
Schalke continued to threaten and were unlucky not be ahead seconds before the break, when a Dennis Aogo corner found its way through to Roman Neustadter, whose shot was deflected just wide.
Steaua looked bright after the break, carving out several opportunities with in the first 10 minutes of the half, with Alexandru Bourceanu causing problems for the home defence.
First a whipped Bourceanu corner found Kapetanos, who fired over, shortly before the winger decided to have a go himself, curling a long-range shot just wide.
Another Bourceanu corner caused yet more problems for the Schalke defence just a few minutes later, with the hosts having Uchida to thank after he headed a deflected ball off the line.And Uchida's night got even better just 10 minutes later, when the Japan international's deep cross eluded everyone before sailing into the net.
The goal brought a sense of relief among the home fans, and 11 minutes later Schalke doubled their lead, when a perfectly-weighted ball from Draxler found Boateng in the area, who applied a calm finish to score.
Draxler himself got on the scoresheet three minutes later, latching on to a threaded through-ball from substitute Christian Fuchs before chipping over the goalkeeper.
It should have been 4-0 as the game advanced into stoppage-time, but Christian Clemens was denied by the woodwork, on what was a great night for Jens Keller's team.
Austria Vienna 0-1 Porto: Lucho strike difference in Group G game
Porto sneaked a 1-0 win away to Austria Vienna in their low-key Champions League clash on Wednesday.Lucho Gonzalez settled Wednesday’s Group G encounter 10 minutes after the break with a well-taken goal following good work from right back Danilo.
Vienna boss Nenad Bjelica named an unchanged team from Saturday's 3-2 defeat to SV Grodig, while his Porto counterpart Paulo Fonseca made three alterations to the side that won 2-0 at home to Gil Vicente at the weekend.
Eliaquim Mangala, Gonzalez and Josue all came into the side at the expense of Maicon, Juan Quintero and Steven Defour.
The visitors had the only effort of note in the opening exchanges, as Heinz Lindner dived to his right to parry Fernando's volley from distance in the second minute.
Vienna had the better of the first 20 minutes but were restricted to efforts from range, with Daniel Royer and Florian Mader both seeing shots fly well off target.
Porto's Jackson Martinez then had the best chance of the first half, but he could only prod his attempt high and wide as he stretched to reach the ball with Lindner charging out to close down the angle.
Phillipp Hosiner wasted a good chance to open the scoring for the hosts shortly after the half-hour mark when he headed over the bar with Helton stranded, and Marko Stankovic then went close to giving them the lead in remarkable fashion three minutes before the break, but his effort from 50 yards dropped onto the roof of the net.
After an even opening to the second period, the visitors went ahead in the 55th minute.
Danilo made a strong run down the right, got to the byline and cut the ball back to the centre of the box where Lucho was in space to sweep beyond a wrong-footed Lindner from 15 yards.
Vienna's responded well though and they almost claimed an immediate equaliser, Markus Suttner getting on the end of Mader's right wing cross only to see his header cannon off the post and away to safety.
Hosiner was proving a real threat to Porto's defence and twice went close to finding an equaliser, first robbing Nicolas Otamendi on the halfway line and firing straight at Helton, before wriggling free of two defenders and hitting the side netting from 20 yards.
As the half wore on, Vienna continued to press hard for an equaliser but were kept at bay by a resolute Portuguese defence who dealt with any threat with relative comfort.
Despite heavy pressure throughout stoppage time, the hosts could not find the equaliser they desperately wanted and Porto were able to close out the game.
Porto sneaked a 1-0 win away to Austria Vienna in their low-key Champions League clash on Wednesday.Lucho Gonzalez settled Wednesday’s Group G encounter 10 minutes after the break with a well-taken goal following good work from right back Danilo.
Vienna boss Nenad Bjelica named an unchanged team from Saturday's 3-2 defeat to SV Grodig, while his Porto counterpart Paulo Fonseca made three alterations to the side that won 2-0 at home to Gil Vicente at the weekend.
Eliaquim Mangala, Gonzalez and Josue all came into the side at the expense of Maicon, Juan Quintero and Steven Defour.
The visitors had the only effort of note in the opening exchanges, as Heinz Lindner dived to his right to parry Fernando's volley from distance in the second minute.
Vienna had the better of the first 20 minutes but were restricted to efforts from range, with Daniel Royer and Florian Mader both seeing shots fly well off target.
Porto's Jackson Martinez then had the best chance of the first half, but he could only prod his attempt high and wide as he stretched to reach the ball with Lindner charging out to close down the angle.
Phillipp Hosiner wasted a good chance to open the scoring for the hosts shortly after the half-hour mark when he headed over the bar with Helton stranded, and Marko Stankovic then went close to giving them the lead in remarkable fashion three minutes before the break, but his effort from 50 yards dropped onto the roof of the net.
After an even opening to the second period, the visitors went ahead in the 55th minute.
Danilo made a strong run down the right, got to the byline and cut the ball back to the centre of the box where Lucho was in space to sweep beyond a wrong-footed Lindner from 15 yards.
Vienna's responded well though and they almost claimed an immediate equaliser, Markus Suttner getting on the end of Mader's right wing cross only to see his header cannon off the post and away to safety.
Hosiner was proving a real threat to Porto's defence and twice went close to finding an equaliser, first robbing Nicolas Otamendi on the halfway line and firing straight at Helton, before wriggling free of two defenders and hitting the side netting from 20 yards.
As the half wore on, Vienna continued to press hard for an equaliser but were kept at bay by a resolute Portuguese defence who dealt with any threat with relative comfort.
Despite heavy pressure throughout stoppage time, the hosts could not find the equaliser they desperately wanted and Porto were able to close out the game.
Atletico Madrid 3-1 Zenit St Petersburg: Russians silenced by Simeone's men
Atletico Madrid kicked off their Champions League campaign with a thorough 3-1 victory against Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday.
The Madrid club also went into the match having lost their only two previous European encounters at home to Russian opposition, and although they struggled to create chances, Miranda headed them into a first-half lead.
His fellow Brazilian, Hulk, equalised in the second half with a brilliant long-range strike, but Arda Turan and substitute Leo Baptistao ensured that the Spanish side began Group G with a win.
Atletico boss Diego Simeone made four changes from the weekend win over Almeria, with the absence of the suspended Diego Costa was a major blow.
Adrian Lopez replaced him while Arda, Miranda and Mario Suarez came in for Tiago, Jose Maria Gimenez and Raul Garcia.
Zenit also picked up a domestic win in their last fixture against Terek Grozny, and four of those involved missed out in Madrid. Alexander Anyukov, Roman Shirokov, Viktor Faizulin and Andrey Arshavin dropped out with Nicolas Lombaerts, Cristian Ansaldi, Konstantin Zyryanov and Hulk coming in.
After a cagey start, Atletico did eventually carve open the Zenit defence in the 27th minute when Koke poked wide from near the penalty spot after a determined run by Suarez.
Simeone’s men gradually took control of the match but genuine chances were at a premium as the Zenit defence held firm. The visitors did, however, switch off before half-time and Atletico made them pay.
Koke fired in a powerful 40th-minute corner from the right and Miranda met it at the near post, heading past the helpless Yuri Lodigin.
The visitors were vastly improved in the second half and after a quick passing move in the 58th minute, Hulk ran at the Atletico defence and fired a powerful shot into the roof of the net from outside the area.
Zenit went close again just after the hour mark as Aleksander Kerzhakov saw a free-kick come back off the crossbar and Atletico responded by retaking the lead almost immediately.
The Russians failed to clear an Atletico free-kick and after Miranda and Koke had seen shots blocked, Arda stroked the ball past Lodigin to restore their lead.
Despite Zenit’s improvement, they were powerless to resist Atletico and Simeone’s side scored their third of the night through substitute Baptistao with 10 minutes left.
Arda played a through ball into the area and the young Brazilian calmly placed a shot into the bottom corner.
Atletico Madrid kicked off their Champions League campaign with a thorough 3-1 victory against Zenit St Petersburg on Wednesday.
The Madrid club also went into the match having lost their only two previous European encounters at home to Russian opposition, and although they struggled to create chances, Miranda headed them into a first-half lead.
His fellow Brazilian, Hulk, equalised in the second half with a brilliant long-range strike, but Arda Turan and substitute Leo Baptistao ensured that the Spanish side began Group G with a win.
Atletico boss Diego Simeone made four changes from the weekend win over Almeria, with the absence of the suspended Diego Costa was a major blow.
Adrian Lopez replaced him while Arda, Miranda and Mario Suarez came in for Tiago, Jose Maria Gimenez and Raul Garcia.
Zenit also picked up a domestic win in their last fixture against Terek Grozny, and four of those involved missed out in Madrid. Alexander Anyukov, Roman Shirokov, Viktor Faizulin and Andrey Arshavin dropped out with Nicolas Lombaerts, Cristian Ansaldi, Konstantin Zyryanov and Hulk coming in.
After a cagey start, Atletico did eventually carve open the Zenit defence in the 27th minute when Koke poked wide from near the penalty spot after a determined run by Suarez.
Simeone’s men gradually took control of the match but genuine chances were at a premium as the Zenit defence held firm. The visitors did, however, switch off before half-time and Atletico made them pay.
Koke fired in a powerful 40th-minute corner from the right and Miranda met it at the near post, heading past the helpless Yuri Lodigin.
The visitors were vastly improved in the second half and after a quick passing move in the 58th minute, Hulk ran at the Atletico defence and fired a powerful shot into the roof of the net from outside the area.
Zenit went close again just after the hour mark as Aleksander Kerzhakov saw a free-kick come back off the crossbar and Atletico responded by retaking the lead almost immediately.
The Russians failed to clear an Atletico free-kick and after Miranda and Koke had seen shots blocked, Arda stroked the ball past Lodigin to restore their lead.
Despite Zenit’s improvement, they were powerless to resist Atletico and Simeone’s side scored their third of the night through substitute Baptistao with 10 minutes left.
Arda played a through ball into the area and the young Brazilian calmly placed a shot into the bottom corner.
Higuain stresses importance of Dortmund defeat
Napoli marksman Gonzalo Higuain has stressed the importance of defeating last season's Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old has hit the ground running in Italy following his €42 million move from Real Madrid in the summer and scored the first goal in the Partenopei's 2-1 victory over BVB, which he insists will help them take Group F by the scruff of the neck.
"It’s a very important victory against a side that was runner-up in the Champions League last season and are top of the Bundesliga, so this is a great result," the Argentine told Sky Sport.
"Goals are important in the league or the Champions League, so I don’t really differentiate.
"The important thing was to win tonight and with Lorenzo Insigne’s goal we were able to control the situation more."
The former Real Madrid striker also claimed that it is easier to succeed in Spanish football than in Serie A on the back of his promising start to life in Italy.
He added: "Serie A is tougher than La Liga, that’s for sure. We have a great team, a great coach and I hope I can continue like this."
Napoli marksman Gonzalo Higuain has stressed the importance of defeating last season's Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old has hit the ground running in Italy following his €42 million move from Real Madrid in the summer and scored the first goal in the Partenopei's 2-1 victory over BVB, which he insists will help them take Group F by the scruff of the neck.
"It’s a very important victory against a side that was runner-up in the Champions League last season and are top of the Bundesliga, so this is a great result," the Argentine told Sky Sport.
"Goals are important in the league or the Champions League, so I don’t really differentiate.
"The important thing was to win tonight and with Lorenzo Insigne’s goal we were able to control the situation more."
The former Real Madrid striker also claimed that it is easier to succeed in Spanish football than in Serie A on the back of his promising start to life in Italy.
He added: "Serie A is tougher than La Liga, that’s for sure. We have a great team, a great coach and I hope I can continue like this."
Wenger lauds special Arsenal side
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised his side's "special" performance after they battled to a 2-1 win at Olympique de Marseille on Wednesday.
Goals from Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey made sure of the three points, before Jordan Ayew netted a late consolation from the penalty spot for the hosts.
The victory made it a club-record 10 straight away wins for Wenger's side and the Frenchman, who took Arsenal to the Champions League final in 2006, was quick to praise his side for a resolute and patient display."It [the away record] shows that maybe defensively we are a bit more stable and a bit more serene," he told Sky Sports.
"It was important for us not to give the first goal away, Marseille had an excellent first half."We were a bit timid and in the second half we grew up and took advantage of ourgood moments in the game. It was a victory linked with patience and experience.
"We have all these players who can make something special, I knew that it would be a difficult game, [Marseille have] a passionate crowd, players of quality, Marseille is a good side."Ramsey's strike made it five goals in seven appearances for the Wales international so far this season and the 22-year-old is eager to help Arsenal continue their recent impressive form.
"It's [the victory] vital, we have a tough group and it was important to get off to a good start and get three points," Ramsey said. "I'm happy with the way I'm playing, I'm playing with confidence, I'm getting into positions and putting them away at the moment.
"I think it's just as important to keep that run going, our away form has been fantastic. Hopefully we can continue to build on that."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised his side's "special" performance after they battled to a 2-1 win at Olympique de Marseille on Wednesday.
Goals from Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey made sure of the three points, before Jordan Ayew netted a late consolation from the penalty spot for the hosts.
The victory made it a club-record 10 straight away wins for Wenger's side and the Frenchman, who took Arsenal to the Champions League final in 2006, was quick to praise his side for a resolute and patient display."It [the away record] shows that maybe defensively we are a bit more stable and a bit more serene," he told Sky Sports.
"It was important for us not to give the first goal away, Marseille had an excellent first half."We were a bit timid and in the second half we grew up and took advantage of ourgood moments in the game. It was a victory linked with patience and experience.
"We have all these players who can make something special, I knew that it would be a difficult game, [Marseille have] a passionate crowd, players of quality, Marseille is a good side."Ramsey's strike made it five goals in seven appearances for the Wales international so far this season and the 22-year-old is eager to help Arsenal continue their recent impressive form.
"It's [the victory] vital, we have a tough group and it was important to get off to a good start and get three points," Ramsey said. "I'm happy with the way I'm playing, I'm playing with confidence, I'm getting into positions and putting them away at the moment.
"I think it's just as important to keep that run going, our away form has been fantastic. Hopefully we can continue to build on that."
'I behaved like a monkey' - Klopp
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp had admitted that he went too far in venting his frustrations during the 2-1 defeat to Napoli in the Champions League, claiming he "behaved like a monkey".
The 47-year-old coach was sent off for gesticulating angrily at the fourth official after he refused to allow Neven Subotic to return to the field of play following a head injury.
However, Klopp has taken full responsibility for his behaviour in the loss to Rafael Benitez's men - but believes victory was there for the taking.
Speaking to ZDF, he said: "We did not show our prettiest face tonight, yet we lost with the closest of defeats.
"We know now that we can beat Napoli, but too many things went wrong, including my red card. It was stupid and I acknowledge that.
"I behaved like a monkey out there. I went too far."
Last year's beaten finalists went behind to a Gonzalo Higuain goal on 27 minutes, with Lorenzo Insigne doubling the advantage midway through the second half before Juan Zuniga netted an own goal three minutes from time.
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp had admitted that he went too far in venting his frustrations during the 2-1 defeat to Napoli in the Champions League, claiming he "behaved like a monkey".
The 47-year-old coach was sent off for gesticulating angrily at the fourth official after he refused to allow Neven Subotic to return to the field of play following a head injury.
However, Klopp has taken full responsibility for his behaviour in the loss to Rafael Benitez's men - but believes victory was there for the taking.
Speaking to ZDF, he said: "We did not show our prettiest face tonight, yet we lost with the closest of defeats.
"We know now that we can beat Napoli, but too many things went wrong, including my red card. It was stupid and I acknowledge that.
"I behaved like a monkey out there. I went too far."
Last year's beaten finalists went behind to a Gonzalo Higuain goal on 27 minutes, with Lorenzo Insigne doubling the advantage midway through the second half before Juan Zuniga netted an own goal three minutes from time.
Napoli will get better & better, says Benitez
Napoli boss Rafa Benitez believes his team will continue to get better on the back of beating Borussia Dortmund 2-1 on Wednesday.
The Partenopei went ahead through a Gonzalo Higuain header and eased into control following Roman Weidenfeller's sending off, with Lorenzo Insigne firing in a rocket of a free kick in the second half to double the lead.
Although Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled a late goal back, the Naples side held on and Benitez left the Stadio San Paolo immensely pleased with his squad's European endeavours.
"I am satisfied, as we did everything we talked about before the game," the Spaniard, 53, told Sky Sport.
"We knew Borussia were very dangerous on the break, but we talked about intensity and everyone helping out in defence.
"Last time I said the team was at 72 per cent and I still think we can improve a lot. Tonight against the European runners-up I have to be satisfied and positive, as it’s a great result.
"These new players – like Gonzalo Higuain, Jose Maria Callejon and Dries Mertens – are of international quality. It was all about giving the group confidence and players like Marek Hamsik and Lorenzo Insigne are enjoying this style of football. I am sure in one or two months it will be even better."
Napoli's next game in Group F will be at Arsenal on October 1.
Napoli boss Rafa Benitez believes his team will continue to get better on the back of beating Borussia Dortmund 2-1 on Wednesday.
The Partenopei went ahead through a Gonzalo Higuain header and eased into control following Roman Weidenfeller's sending off, with Lorenzo Insigne firing in a rocket of a free kick in the second half to double the lead.
Although Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled a late goal back, the Naples side held on and Benitez left the Stadio San Paolo immensely pleased with his squad's European endeavours.
"I am satisfied, as we did everything we talked about before the game," the Spaniard, 53, told Sky Sport.
"We knew Borussia were very dangerous on the break, but we talked about intensity and everyone helping out in defence.
"Last time I said the team was at 72 per cent and I still think we can improve a lot. Tonight against the European runners-up I have to be satisfied and positive, as it’s a great result.
"These new players – like Gonzalo Higuain, Jose Maria Callejon and Dries Mertens – are of international quality. It was all about giving the group confidence and players like Marek Hamsik and Lorenzo Insigne are enjoying this style of football. I am sure in one or two months it will be even better."
Napoli's next game in Group F will be at Arsenal on October 1.
Streller: Beating Chelsea is a miracle
Basel match-winner Marco Streller has branded his side's stunning 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as a 'miracle'.
Streller capitalised on poor defending at a corner to beat Petr Cech at his near post and seal the win for the Swiss side, who had trailed to Oscar's first-half opener before Mohamed Salah levelled with 19 minutes remaining.Chelsea had not previously lost a Champions League group game in almost 10 years, and a triumphant Streller told Sky Sports: "We always expect it, but we knew it would be a tough game.
"After [Basel got back to] 1-1 I felt Chelsea had a problem and I said to my boys 'listen, we can win here' … and they listened to me! I want to say it's a miracle. Now we are getting more experienced and we can win here in Chelsea."It's unbelievable. I think people in England will know that we are a team to be reckoned with."
Basel coach Murat Yakin made it clear that much work still lies ahead for his side if they are to qualify from Group E, which also contains Schalke and Steaua Bucharest."We will remain humble now and know that all we did was win the first game," said Yakin.
"[I owe] A huge compliment to my team. After years we have finally managed to win a game over here. We will continue to focus on one game at a time."
Basel match-winner Marco Streller has branded his side's stunning 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as a 'miracle'.
Streller capitalised on poor defending at a corner to beat Petr Cech at his near post and seal the win for the Swiss side, who had trailed to Oscar's first-half opener before Mohamed Salah levelled with 19 minutes remaining.Chelsea had not previously lost a Champions League group game in almost 10 years, and a triumphant Streller told Sky Sports: "We always expect it, but we knew it would be a tough game.
"After [Basel got back to] 1-1 I felt Chelsea had a problem and I said to my boys 'listen, we can win here' … and they listened to me! I want to say it's a miracle. Now we are getting more experienced and we can win here in Chelsea."It's unbelievable. I think people in England will know that we are a team to be reckoned with."
Basel coach Murat Yakin made it clear that much work still lies ahead for his side if they are to qualify from Group E, which also contains Schalke and Steaua Bucharest."We will remain humble now and know that all we did was win the first game," said Yakin.
"[I owe] A huge compliment to my team. After years we have finally managed to win a game over here. We will continue to focus on one game at a time."
200-goal milestone a 'great honour', revels Rooney
Wayne Rooney is revelling in the "great honour" of scoring his 200th goal for Manchester United during the 4-2 win over Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday.
The England international netted a double either side of a Robin van Persie strike to secure an opening group game victory in his 406th outing for the Premier League champions.
Rooney insists his primary focus continues to be helping United win matches, but is quite proud of reaching a target attained by only a select few at Old Trafford.
"It’s a great honour for me to have scored 200 goals for a club like Manchester United," he told the club's official website.
"When you look at the list of top scorers I think I’m only the fourth player in the club’s history to have reached this number after Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and Jack Rowley. It’s certainly something I’m very proud of.
"My main aim is always to help the team win games and if I score that’s a bonus. Hopefully there are still a few more goals to come from me yet."
Rooney, who was the subject of summer-long interest from Chelsea after submitting a second transfer request in under three years, went on to praise the United fans as he shifts his gaze to Sunday's derby clash with Manchester City.
"The reception I got when I was substituted was amazing and meant a lot so I want to thank the fans for that," he continued.
"The Manchester United fans have been brilliant since the start of the season, their support home and away is always top drawer and means a lot to the team.
"The best way to repay the fans is with good team performances. I’m happy to be in a position where I get the opportunity to score goals – and long may that continue.
"My main focus now is preparing as well as possible for the game against City at the weekend. We all know they are a strong outfit and have made some good signings over the summer so we will definitely need to be at our best come Sunday."
Manchester United have confirmed to Goal that they have sent out a letter to concerned supporters justifying the club's transfer activity this summer.
Marouane Fellaini was the only high-profile arrival at Old Trafford in the summer, while public pursuits of Thiago Alcantara, Cesc Fabregas, Leighton Baines and Ander Herrera all failed to result in deals.
But United insist they met their key targets in the summer transfer window, and spent more on strengthening the squad than in previous years.
"The club had two main priorities for the transfer window," the letter reads. "The first was to keep Wayne Rooney. He is a world-class player and the manager is very keen to have Wayne as a key part of the club's drive to retain the Premier League trophy. That aim was fulfilled.
"The second priority was to add a midfield player, and the capture of Fellaini has met that need.
"Add to that the fact that Wilfried Zaha is a new signing and that the manager has added the highly-rated young player Adnan Janazaj to the squad and the team does in fact have a different feel to it than the one that finished last season.
"The club has invested over £40 million acquiring new players this summer, as well as re-signing Nani on a long term deal - more than it has traditionally spent on transfers."
United admitted they had failed to reach agreements with other clubs for some of their transfer targets, but insist they will continue to back manager David Moyes in his attempts to strengthen the squad.
"Additional resources were there to add to that but it was not possible to agree with other clubs for the right players to leave. The key point there is that the players we buy have to be the right ones for Manchester United; not just any player.
"The club has always backed the manager in the transfer market, as Sir Alex has said on many occasions and it will continue to do so. The club has demonstrated its belief in, and commitment to, David Moyes through the award of a six year contract.
"Allowing him to shape the future Manchester United team is a long term project not an eight-week panic. He must be given time to assess his new squad and come to his own decisions on which players he feels will strengthen it."
Totti set to sign new deal at Roma
Roma legend Francesco Totti has confirmed that he is on the verge of signing a new deal with the Giallorossi.
The former Italy star has spent his entire career to date at the Stadio Olimpico, making almost 700 appearances for the capital club over the course of the last two decades.
His current deal expires at the end of the season but he is close to extending his stay with his boyhood club.
"We are sorting out the final details," the 36-year-old told reporters.
"There isn't a lot to do. We'll watch for the president now to make a decision on when to put pen to paper."
Meanwhile, general director Mauro Baldissoni also said that a new deal for the former Italy international was imminent.
"There are just the fine points remaining to sort out," he said.
"He will soon sign the contract. There are no problems."
Roma legend Francesco Totti has confirmed that he is on the verge of signing a new deal with the Giallorossi.
The former Italy star has spent his entire career to date at the Stadio Olimpico, making almost 700 appearances for the capital club over the course of the last two decades.
His current deal expires at the end of the season but he is close to extending his stay with his boyhood club.
"We are sorting out the final details," the 36-year-old told reporters.
"There isn't a lot to do. We'll watch for the president now to make a decision on when to put pen to paper."
Meanwhile, general director Mauro Baldissoni also said that a new deal for the former Italy international was imminent.
"There are just the fine points remaining to sort out," he said.
"He will soon sign the contract. There are no problems."
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