Branislav Ivanovic scored a dramatic late winner as Chelsea saw off Benfica to win the Europa League and claim their second continental title in two seasons in Amsterdam.
Fernando Torres coolly finished off a swift counterattack to give the Blues the lead against the run of play shortly before the hour mark.
Oscar Cardozo soon equalised from the penalty spot after Cesar Azplicueta’s handball but Ivanovic struck in the 93rd minute to ensure that Rafa Benitez’s reign at Stamford Bridge ended in silverware.
Benfica, who suffered a dramatic defeat in their virtual title-decider against Porto in their last outing, were anchored by former Chelsea youngster, Nemanja Matic, in central midfield, while Pablo Aimar, a Spanish Liga winner under Benitez at Valencia, was on the bench.
Lampard would go even closer, rattling the crossbar with a terrific drive from distance, but Chelsea did not rue the 34-year-old’s miss.
In the third and final minute of added time, Ivanovic rose at the back post with Artur rooted to the spot.
Chelsea grabs Europa Cup
