Oscar magic takes Chelsea through
Sunday, January 26, 2014
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A sublime free-kick by Oscar earned Chelsea FC a 1-0 win against Stoke City FC and a place in the fifth round of the FA Cup, on a day when Fulham FC were held by Sheffield United FC.
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Chelsea FC took their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup by overcoming Stoke City FC 1-0 on a day when Fulham FC were held to a 1-1 draw at third-tier Sheffield United FC.
The result at Stamford Bridge was rarely in doubt from the moment Oscar curled a majestic free-kick beyond the outstretched fingertips of Asmir Begović on 27 minutes. The Brazil playmaker then struck a post from the edge of the penalty area after collecting a pass from Samuel Eto'o.
Stoke struggled to ask questions of the home side and almost fell further behind when André Schürrle's shot on the angle hit the outside of the near post. José Mourinho's men continued to probe but a second goal was not forthcoming, with Eto'o stabbing wide from close range and Begović spectacularly tipping a David Luiz free-kick over.
In the early kick-off, Fulham came from behind to earn a replay against third-division outfit Sheffield United. Chris Porter had given the Blades a first-half lead, but the momentum shifted when Michael Doyle was sent off after the break. The Premier League side capitalised with 15 minutes remaining, Hugo Rodallega finding the corner with a powerful drive.
