RAFAEL Benitez hailed his Chelsea team after winning the Europa League with a dramatic victory over Benfica.

Branislav Ivanovic's injury-time header saw the Blues run out 2-1 winners at the Amsterdam Arena after Oscar Cardozo had cancelled out Fernandos Torres' opener.

"That was a great performance in the second half, against a very good team,” said interim boss Benitez.

“I'm really pleased for the players and everyone involved. We didn't have the legs in the first half, so we had to adapt.

“They players have worked so hard, all season. I am proud - it was not easy. I'm really pleased, really proud."

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