Benfica reach Europa League final

Benfica have edged past Fenerbahce 3-2 on aggregate to book their place in the Europa League final.

The Portuguese side's 3-1 victory at home on Wednesday means that they will now meet Chelsea at the Amsterdam Arena on May 15.

© AP Photos

The hosts took an early lead as Nicolas Gaitan linked up with Lima before flicking the ball into the far corner on nine minutes.

Fenerbahce regained their aggregate advantage midway through the first half when Dirk Kuyt converted from the penalty spot after a handball from Ezequiel Garay.

However, Benfica edged in front again 10 minutes before the break thanks to Oscar Cardozo's low finish into the bottom corner.

Cardozo then secured the home side's passage into the final later this month when he collected Luisao's shot to fire into the net.