Romelu Lukaku proved the difference for Chelsea as the Champions League holders edged well-drilled Zenit St Petersburg 1-0 on Tuesday night.
After a winning start to their title defence on a frustrating evening at Stamford Bridge, boss Thomas Tuchel was a relieved man thanks to his £98m striker’s clinical header 20 minutes from time in the Group H clash.
On a night when the Blues didn’t click in attack, Lukaku made the most of his chances to score his fourth goal in as many games since his arrival last month.
With the Blues going to Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday, Tuchel adds: “We didn’t create many chances for him, we did not create many deliveries.
“But he’s the type of guy who doesn’t lose confidence and belief. And that is why he is here and makes him a world-class striker.”