Champions League Europe — 03 October 2012

All three British sides involved in last night’s Champions League emerged victorious. Celtic claimed a historic 3-2 victory at Spartak Moscow.

The visitors took a first half lead through a header from Gary Hooper.

Nigerian international striker Emmanuel Emenike scored a brace of close range goals either side of the break. Spartak were reduced to ten men on 62 minutes, as Juan Insaurralde was sent-off for bringing down Gary Hooper when he was in on goal.

The Hoops were back on level terms in the 71st minute. Substitute James Forrest’s effort was saved by the Spartak keeper, only for the rebound to hit Dmitri Kombarov and bounce into the net. Celtic then pushed for a winner.

The winner came in stoppage-time, as Georgios Samaras headed home from Emilio Izaguirre’s cross. The defeat was Spartak’s second consecutive 3-2 Champions League reverse and leaves the Russian bottom of the group. The victory was Celtic’s first away European Cup win since 1986.

Elsewhere, Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory at CFR Cluj in Romania. The home side took the lead in the 14th minute. Pantelis Kapetanos fired home from a cross by Modou Sougou’s cross.

Robin Van Persie equalised in the 29th minute from a Wayne Rooney free-kick. The Dutchman scored his brace in the 49th minute, through a delicate finish after Rooney had found the striker with a chipped ball into the box.

Chelsea eased to a 4-0 victory at Danish champions Nordsjaelland. Spanish international midfielder Juan Mata slotted home in the 33rd minute to put the Blues into the lead. It took until the 79th minute for the Blues to extend their lead.

Brazilian defender David Luiz doubled the Blues lead with a superb free-kick. Three minutes later and Chelsea were three up, Juan Mata stroking home the Blues third. The victory was completed with just a minute left, Brazilian midfielder Ramires scoring from close-range from an Oscar cross.

Can Chelsea defend their European crown?

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David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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