May 02, 2013 11:24 PM EDT
Chelsea vs Basel Results: Benitez Believes Quality Shone Through as Blues Book Europa League Final Against Benfica

Rafa Benitez said it was the quality of the Chelsea players that eventually made all the difference in their 3-1 win over FC Basel in the Europa League semifinal second leg, which also booked them a place in the final at the Amsterdam Arena against Benfica.

Chelsea were looking at a possible shock upset by Basel after the Swiss side took the lead in first half stoppage time.

However, second half goals from Fernando Torres, Victor Moses and David Luiz gave the home side a comfortable win with the Blues going through 5-2 on aggregate.

"I was just telling things that we were not doing well and things that we could improve," Benitez said when asked what was said at halftime to rouse his players.

"And the reaction was really good. We have good players with quality and as soon as they put everything there they can make the difference.

"I am very pleased to be in the final. We have been working so hard this year to be in finals or semifinals, and now we are in another final the players deserve to be there."

Benitez is not expecting a cakewalk in the final, with Benfica doing really well to get past Turkish side Fenerbahce in their other semifinal tie.

"I am really pleased for the players and for everyone here," he added. "For the club it is an opportunity and it will be tough because Benfica are a very dangerous team, but we are there and with this commitment and quality we will have a chance for sure.

"It is not just about me. It is about the players, the fans, the staff, the club -- everyone who was helping the team. As a manager you have to do your job and another final is really good, and we'll try to win."

The pick of the goals at Stamford Bridge was from David Luiz, who curled a brilliant strike with his weaker left foot past Basel goalkeeper Yann Sommer, and Benitez could not be more satisfied with the Brazilian's performance and form.

"I am really pleased with him because since I came I was talking with him and giving him confidence and he is giving me a lot of things back," Benitez said.

"His goal at Fulham was with the right foot and tonight it was with the left foot. He has a great character and he is a player that is growing, and with the quality that he has he can be even better."

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