Lukaku scores in Chelsea slim Champion League victory

Romelu Lukaku’s second-half header saved an under-par Chelsea as they began their Champions League defence with a 1-0 win over Zenit at Stamford Bridge.

Lukaku brilliantly headed home Cesar Azpilicueta’s deep cross (69) for his fourth goal in four appearances back at Chelsea, in a game where the European champions struggled to create clear-cut chances and one manager Thomas Tuchel admitted was “not easy” for Lukaku.

Zenit nearly grabbed an equaliser late on as sub Artem Dzyuba failed to convert at the far post with the goal gaping, summing up a nervy and at times frustrating opening night in Group H for Tuchel’s side.

With Juventus winning 3-0 at Malmo, Chelsea sit second in their group, before going to the Italian side on September 29 for matchday two. Tuchel’s side remains unbeaten this season after five games in all competitions.