Chelsea, Benfica, Fenerbahce win in Europa League

Chelsea, Benfica and Fenerbahce closed in on the Europa League semifinals with victories on Thursday.

Basel scored two crucial away goals in a draw at Tottenham.

Fernando Torres scored twice in a game for the first time in four months as European champion Chelsea won 3-1 over Rubin Kazan at home in the first leg of their quarterfinal.

Benfica came from behind to beat Newcastle 3-1 at home, while Fenerbahce scored two late goals to claim a 2-0 victory over short-handed Lazio.

Tottenham fought back from two goals down to tie 2-2 with Basel, but midfielder Gareth Bale was carried off in stoppage time with a serious-looking injury to his right ankle. (AP)